A dental sealant is an excellent preventive treatment for cavity-prone patients. Even with a good oral hygiene routine, some people are still vulnerable to tooth decay because of the structure and shape of their dentition. If the dentist notices that a patient is susceptible to decay despite good oral hygiene, they may recommend using dental sealants to be a protective barrier for the teeth. One of the questions patients often have about the procedure is how long the dental sealant treatment lasts.
Dentists do not advise all their patients to get sealants — mostly kids and young adults with molars and premolars, or sometimes, baby teeth. The sealant fills the deep pits and grooves of the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, which are prone to cavities because they tend to trap food debris. Food debris and bacteria on the chewing surfaces of the teeth are a recipe for tooth decay.
Before decay occurs on the teeth, the dentist can apply sealants to smooth out the chewing surfaces. The plastic barrier prevents bacteria and food particles from building up on the tooth’s surface and makes brushing much easier.
It is reasonable to worry about the effectiveness and longevity of dental sealant, considering they are made from a plastic material. However, dental sealants are created to be durable. After applying the sealant over the teeth, they can last up to 10 years with proper care. There will be no need to remove them; instead, they will gradually deteriorate over time until none of the material is left on the teeth.
As the material wears down, patients can visit the dentist to get new sealants when necessary. Nevertheless, the hardened plastic is highly durable and will withstand normal biting forces as long as it not subjected to undue stress, such as biting on hard substances or using the teeth as a tool for opening tough packages. To protect the sealant, patients must avoid chewing on hard foods, as well. Such activities can damage not only the sealant material but also the natural tooth enamel.
After the dental sealant procedure, the dentist will continue to check the structural integrity every time the patient comes in for a dental checkup and cleaning. They may reapply the sealant if it appears to be deteriorating faster than anticipated. This will ensure that the teeth are continually protected from plaque that may harden into tartar ahead of their next dental appointment.
It is important to note that the sealant is not the only method of preventing cavities, and certainly not a replacement for oral care routine. Patients will still need to brush and floss their teeth, get antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash, and maintain good dietary habits to protect their teeth from cavities.
If you think a dental sealant might be a good option for you or your child, talk to the dentist during your next appointment. If you are eligible to get sealant protection, the dentist will perform the procedure to minimize the occurrence of tooth decay.
Request an appointment here: https://atlantapamperedsmiles.com or call Pampered Smiles at (404) 891-9489 for an appointment in our Atlanta office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Sealants in Atlanta, GA.
Routine dental checkups are just as important as brushing and flossing when it comes to oral health. Visiting a family dentist is a smart and convenient option that can provide a number of important advantages for the whole family and help to ensure you all maintain healthy teeth and gums.Some people may assume that there…
Wondering whether a family dentist can offer cosmetic dental services to their patients? Yes, they can. When it comes to what types of cosmetic services they offer, it simply depends on each individual dental practice.Understanding why choosing a family dentist in Atlanta is beneficial allows those who are looking for a new dentist to learn…
Your family dentist is a good source not just for maintaining healthy teeth but for treating gum problems as well. You should emphasize good brushing habits with your children, but do not forget about their gums either. If you notice that your child’s gums are bleeding, you need to consider whether a trip to the…
A family dentist is exactly who patients should talk to if they have questions about dental health. These are general dentists who spend the majority of their workdays treating oral problems that affect people of all ages.Here are some of the questions people often ask a family dentist:A family dentist makes getting the dental treatments…
Many people may believe that they do not have time for routine dental care, which consists of daily brushing and flossing as well as periodic cleaning by a dentist. Admittedly, these tasks do take some time but should be a priority even in a busy schedule. People who do not take time for brushing, flossing,…
Sleep apnea is a fairly common medical condition that affects millions of Americans every day and, in some cases, can have life-threatening side effects. To get the right kind of help for your apnea, it first helps to understand the causes of this sleep condition, what the different causes mean for treatment, and how you…