By now, most everyone has heard of dental sealants and they know they are supposed to prevent caviities. But the specifics of dental sealants leave many questions unanswered.
- What are dental sealants? Dental sealants are thin resin coatings applied to the grooves of teeth. These susceptible grooves most commonly lie on the chewing surfaces of teeth where food particles and plaque collect. Even with thorough and routine brushing, totally removing the decay-causing food and plaque can be nearly impossible.
- What teeth will benefit most from sealants? The permanent molars are the teeth most commonly sealed. They erupt into the mouth around 6 and 12 years of age. In addition, sealants may, in some cases, be appropriate for susceptible grooves found in permanent bicuspids (the replacement teeth for the baby molars), incisors, wisdom teeth and even baby teeth molars.
- How are sealants applied? First, the dental care provider thoroughly cleans the tooth surface, carefully checking to be sure no cavities exist. Next, a mild acid is applied for 15-20 seconds, rinsed with water, followed by application of a bonding agent. Finally, the sealant material is applied and, in most cases, instantly cured with a bright curing light.
- Is it easy for the patient? It is easy for the patient since no local anesthesia is usually necessary. The process is very technique sensitive, requiring the tooth to be isolated and kept dry. The patient will have to tolerate having suction and air applied to their teeth and having their teeth isolated from the tongue and cheek.
- Are sealants visible? Most sealants are either clear, opaque white or totally tooth colored, making them unnoticeable.
- How long will sealants last? Properly applied sealants on normal teeth should last at least in excess of 5 years, often longer than 15 years.
- Will sealants prevent all cavities? Sealants are designed to prevent cavities only in the grooves of teeth, where nearly 80 percent of permanent molars cavities form. Smooth surface cavities, such as those between the teeth, require flossing and fluoride application for prevention.
- Will sealants have to be replaced? Sealants should be checked at every professional dental exam. If sealants wear excessively or are missing, they can be reapplied with ease.
- Are there any restrictions after sealants are applied? The patient can eat immediately after sealant application. The only restriction lies in heavy ice chewing which can, over time, increase the wear on both the sealant and teeth.
- When is the optimum time for sealants to be applied to teeth? The optimum time for sealant application is shortly after the teeth erupt in the mouth, before the decay process occurs.
- Can sealants be applied to teeth that are filled? If the filling of the tooth is of a groove-origin cavity, the filling will take the place of the sealant. Unfilled grooves, however, can still be sealed.
In conclusion, sealants are a valuable tool to prevent dental cavities. They, along with regular dental check-ups, consistent home care and fluoride application, can go a long way in promoting a healthy dental future.
Dr. Glenn V. Hemberger, D.D.S., M.S., specializes in dental care from baby’s first check-up (12-18 months) through the teenage years. He also provides comprehensive orthodontic care.