Brushing and flossing your teeth is the most effective way to prevent cavities, but reaching every nook and cranny of the teeth may be difficult, especially the back teeth (molars) we use to chew. The molars are the favourite place for leftover food and cavity-causing bacteria to reside. That’s why there is another safety net to keep the teeth clean, called dental sealants.
Dental sealants, also known as fissure sealants, are comprised of a thin, plastic coating. Dental sealants are painted on to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars) to prevent tooth decay. Dental sealants bond into depressions and groves quickly to form a protective shield over the enamel.
A dental sealant is a preservative treatment available at your Port Moody dental clinic. It facilitates prevention and quick intervention to stop the tooth decay process before it reaches the end stage of disease (cavity). When a cavity forms, it will require a dental restoration to repair the damage, which is why dental sealants are essential.
How Dental Sealants Work?
You can think of dental sealants as an umbrella for your teeth. When bacteria in your mouth comes into contact with food particles, they produce harmful acids that create holes in your teeth. Dental sealants prevent food particles from accumulating and stop bacteria acid from sticking onto the teeth, the same way an umbrella protects you from getting wet.
Who Needs Dental Sealants?
Once your child’s permanent back teeth have grown, dental sealants can be applied. This fills the deep grooves and pits on the chewing surface of the teeth to protect them and reduce the chance of cavity formation later in life. Generally, sealants are applied during childhood; however, adults may receive sealants if they haven’t previously or if a pit in the teeth develops.
How to Care for Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants won’t require any special treatment once they are applied. Patients must ensure they are brushing twice daily and flossing regularly. Also, they should visit their dentist every six months for a dental cleaning.