How long will your dental sealants last? Well, the answer depends on multiple factors, from the type of sealant used to the overall oral health of the person. At BCR Dentistry, we are here to help you determine how long your sealants can last and how to ensure they stay their best. Read on for more information!
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a type of protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Sealants are a barrier, preventing food and bacteria that can cause cavities. They are usually applied to children’s teeth soon after they come in, but adults can also benefit from them.
Sealants can last for several years but will eventually need to be replaced. It would help if you had your dentist check your sealants at your regular appointments to ensure they are still intact and effective.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Dental sealants are one of the most effective methods of preventing tooth decay. They are thin, clear plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Sealants protect teeth by filling in the grooves and pits that can harbor cavities-causing bacteria.
Most sealants will last for several years before they need to be reapplied. However, checking your sealants at regular dental visits is important to ensure they are still intact and doing their job. Your dentist can easily reapply sealants as needed.
How to Make Dental Sealants Last Longer
Dental sealants are a great way to protect your teeth from cavities, but they don’t last forever. Here are a few tips to make your dental sealants last longer:
- Avoid hard foods: Hard foods can damage dental sealants and cause them to wear down faster. Stick to softer foods and avoid chewing hard objects like ice or candy.
- Brush regularly: Brushing your teeth twice a day helps remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to cavities. Be sure to brush around your sealants gently to avoid damaging them.
- See your dentist: Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining the health of your teeth and catching any problems early. Your dentist can tell if your sealants need to be replaced and can do so quickly and easily.
Benefits of Using Dental Sealants
Consider dental sealants if you’re looking for a way to protect your teeth and prevent cavities. Sealants are a thin coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where most cavities occur. They act as a barrier, protecting the tooth from bacteria and food particles that can cause cavities.
There are many benefits of using dental sealants, including:
Preventing Cavities: Dental sealants create a barrier that protects the tooth from bacteria and food particles that can cause cavities.
Easy to Apply: Sealing a tooth is quick and easy and does not require any drills or anesthesia.
Saves Money: When used with regular brushing and flossing, sealants can save you money by preventing cavities and the need for fillings or other treatments down the road.
Protected Teeth: Sealants act as a protective shield for teeth, keeping them safe from damage caused by chewing or grinding.
Types of Materials Used for Dental Sealants
A dental sealant is a plastic material usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth – the molars and premolars. Sealants provide a protective coating that shields the teeth against decay-causing bacteria and food particles.
Different materials are used for dental sealants, each with its unique set of benefits. The most common type of dental sealant is composed of resin-based composite material. This sealant bonds directly to the tooth surface, providing a strong and durable shield against decay. Resin-based composite sealants are available in various colors so that they can be matched to the patient’s natural tooth color.
Another type of dental sealant is made from glass ionomer cement. This material releases fluoride ions, which help prevent tooth decay. Glass ionomer cement sealants are often used on baby teeth, as they are still developing and are more susceptible to decay.
Sealants are typically applied in a single visit to the dentist’s office. The tooth is cleaned and dried before the sealant material is applied. Once the sealant has been applied, it must be cured with a special light before it hardens and sets in place. After the sealant has been cured, you can eat and drink as normal.
Reasons to Get Your Teeth Sealed by a Professional Dentist
When it comes to oral health, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure your teeth are well-protected. This includes getting dental sealants applied by a professional dentist. Sealants are a clear or white plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (molars), which act as a barrier and protect them from cavities.
There are many reasons why you should get your teeth sealed by a professional dentist, such as:
- Dental sealants are an effective way to prevent cavities.
- Sealants can last up to 10 years with proper care.
- Sealants are painless and easy to apply.
- They’re much less expensive than having to fill a cavity.
FAQs
1.What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are a type of plastic that is used to protect the teeth from decay and cavities. They are applied directly to the surface of a tooth and are used instead of fluoride treatments. The goal of using a dental sealant is to prevent decay by keeping plaque build-up at bay in between teeth, where bacteria can thrive and cause cavities.
2. How do sealants work?
Sealants work by forming a chemical bond with the surface of your teeth and forming a barrier against plaque and bacteria. They are designed to last for at least 3 years before they need replacing, which means you won’t have to worry about replacing them every time one falls out or wears off!
3. Will I still have to brush my teeth after applying a sealant?
Yes! You still need to brush your teeth twice daily as usual, but also make sure you floss once per day as well so that you can remove any toothbrush bristles left behind on your teeth after brushing!
Conclusion
Dental sealants can be an excellent way to protect your teeth from staining and decay. They provide a thin barrier on the surface of your teeth that helps keep out bacteria and other unwanted particles. While dental sealants are not permanent, they typically last up to 5 years with proper care and maintenance. At BCR Dentistry, we will monitor your dental sealants to ensure they remain in good condition for optimal protection against cavities. With our help, you can maintain healthy teeth for many years!