Maintaining good oral health simply involves brushing and flossing. Preventive measures may sometimes go a long way to save teeth from cavities and decay. One such preventive treatment for teeth is dental sealants. They are generally recommended for children, and some adults too. Are they a choice for everyone? Let’s explore some advantages and possible drawbacks of dental sealants.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. These teeth have grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria can collect and lead to cavities. Sealants provide a barrier over the surface and protect the area from decay while it is easy to maintain good oral hygiene.
It is a simple, painless procedure. A dentist cleans and dries the teeth before applying a special gel that helps the sealant bond to the teeth. After rinsing and drying again, the sealant is painted onto the tooth and hardened with a curing light. The entire dental sealant procedure takes only a few minutes per tooth but provides long-term protection.
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
There are several advantages to getting dental sealants, making them a popular choice for cavity prevention:
- Effective cavity prevention: Sealants form a protection layer against bacterial attack, preventing the formation of cavities by as much as 80%.
- Quick and Pain-Free Application – Unlike fillings or other dental procedures, sealants do not require drilling or anesthesia.
- Long-Lasting Protection – They can last as long as up to 10 years with good care, hence a worthwhile investment in oral health.
- Cost-effective – Prevention of tooth decay saves costly dental treatment of fillings, crowns, or root canal in the later stages.
- Suitable for Children and Adolescents – It is particularly suitable for children and teenagers since young people are more likely to suffer from cavities.
Potential Drawbacks of Dental Sealants
While sealants offer numerous benefits, they may not be the perfect solution for everyone. Here are a few potential downsides:
- Not Suitable for All Teeth – Sealants work the best for molars which have deep grooves. You don’t necessarily need them if your teeth have natural smooth surfaces.
- Potential Damage – Sealants can easily chip off or simply wear over time and need to be reapplied.
- Risk of Improper Application – Application of a sealant incorrectly traps the bacteria and results in decay rather than against it.
- Temporary Solution – They last for many years, but sealants are not permanent fix and might be replaced at a later time.
- Possible Allergic Reactions- Though extremely rare, there may be people with sensitivities to the materials in sealants.
Who Should Consider Dental Sealants?
If you are thinking what is the purpose of dental sealants then here is an answer sealants are typically recommended for children and teenagers as soon as their permanent molars come in. However, adults with deep grooves in their molars can also benefit from the treatment. If you have a history of cavities or struggle with maintaining oral hygiene, sealants may be a smart preventive measure.
Taking the Next Step With Landmark Dental
If you’re considering dental sealant treatment in South Edmonton, consulting with a professional is the best way to determine if it’s right for you or your child. A dentist can assess your oral health, discuss any concerns, and guide you on the next steps.
At Landmark Dental, we are committed to providing high-quality preventive care to keep your smile healthy and strong. If you’re looking for a dentist in South Edmonton, our team is here to help you with expert advice and professional sealant applications. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward cavity-free teeth!
