The Benefits of Dental Sealants: What You Need to Know

Dental sealants also known as pit and fissure sealants are a preventive dental treatment designed to protect teeth from decay and cavities. They are particularly beneficial for children and teenagers, but adults can also benefit from this preventive measure. Here, we’ll delve into the details of dental sealants, including what they are, how they work, their benefits, the application process, and who should consider getting them.

How do they work?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made from plastic or other dental materials. They are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars), where decay often occurs. These teeth have grooves and pits that can trap food particles and bacteria, making them more susceptible to cavities. Sealants provide a smooth surface that covers these grooves and pits, effectively sealing out food and bacteria.

What are sealants made of?

Dental sealants can be either a composite resin (similar to white dental fillings) or a glass ionomer cement. Both types of sealants are designed to be biocompatible and durable, providing a protective barrier against decay.

Composite resin sealants	Glass ionomer sealants
– More common – Usually contain a mixture of bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA) or urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA). – Particles such as silica or other fine materials are added as fillers to add strength and wear resistance.	– Less commonly used – Contains Glass powder, typically fluoroaluminosilicate glass and acrylic acid

How are sealants applied on the tooth surface?

The process of applying dental sealants is quick, painless, and straightforward:

The dentist or dental hygienist thoroughly cleans the teeth to remove any plaque or food particles.
An acidic solution is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth to roughen them up. This helps the sealant bond to the tooth surface.
The tooth is rinsed and dried.
The sealant material is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. Sometimes a special curing light is used to help the sealant harden more quickly.

Benefits of Dental Sealants

Sealants provide a physical barrier that protects teeth from decay-causing bacteria and food particles.
Sealants are less expensive and less invasive than treating cavities and tooth decay.
The application process is quick and painless, making it ideal for children and adults alike.
Sealants can last several years before needing reapplication. Regular dental check-ups ensure they remain intact and effective.

Who Should Get Dental Sealants?

Sealants are most commonly applied to children and teenagers’ molars and premolars as soon as they erupt. This early protection helps prevent cavities during the cavity-prone years of ages 6-14.

Adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants. It’s particularly useful for those with deep grooves or pits in their teeth.

Are there any disadvantages?

While dental sealants offer significant benefits in preventing cavities, they also have some disadvantages:

Dental sealants cannot be placed on teeth that have existing decay or dental fillings.
Sealants usually last several years but are not permanent and may need to be reapplied.
If not applied correctly or if they wear down, sealants can fail and not provide the intended protection.
If there was already a small cavity or incipient decay before the sealant was applied, it can continue to progress unnoticed under the sealant..
Sealants are primarily effective for the chewing surfaces of back teeth and are not suitable for all tooth surfaces.

Conclusion

Dental sealants are a simple, effective, and economical way to protect teeth from cavities and decay. Whether for children, teenagers, or adults, sealants offer long-lasting protection and peace of mind. If you’re considering dental sealants, consult with your dentist to see if they are a suitable option for you or your family. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene practices will help maintain the health and integrity of your teeth for years to come.

FAQs

Can cavities grow under sealants?

Yes, cavities can develop under dental sealants, though it is relatively uncommon. This can happen if there is a pre-existing decay, or if the sealant cracks, or if the sealant is not applied correctly, leaving gaps, it can fail to provide a complete barrier against plaque and bacteria.

Are sealants better than fillings?

Sealants are a preventive measure to stop cavities before they start, while fillings are a treatment for existing cavities. Both are important in maintaining oral health, and their use depends on the specific need of the patient.

Are dental sealants safe?

Yes, dental sealants are considered safe. They effectively prevent cavities, and any concerns about materials like BPA are minimal, as the levels used are very low and deemed safe by health authorities.

Do sealants damage enamel?

No, dental sealants do not damage enamel. They are designed to protect the enamel by providing a barrier against decay. The application process is non-invasive and does not involve removing any enamel. Sealants actually preserve the enamel by preventing cavities.

How long do dental sealants last?

Dental sealants typically last between 5 to 10 years, but their longevity can vary based on factors like oral hygiene, the amount of chewing pressure they endure, and the specific material used.