Understanding Dental Sealants: What Are They Made Of?

Understanding Dental Sealants: What Are They Made Of?

October 1, 2024

Dental sealants are much more than just a protective coating—they are a shield against tooth decay, particularly effective for vulnerable molars and premolars. This guide dives into the world of dental sealants, exploring their composition, application process, and maintenance. By understanding how sealants work and their significant benefits across different age groups, you’ll gain insight into why they are a crucial component of preventive dental care. Discover how dental sealants at Town Dental – Excelsior can help safeguard your oral health and prevent future dental issues effectively. 

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants can be described as thin, protective coatings put on the chewing layers of molars and premolars. They function as a barrier, sealing off deep pits and fissures wherein bacteria and food particles can accumulate, leading to decay. By creating a smooth surface over these vulnerable areas, sealants effectively prevent cavities. This preventive measure is specifically beneficial for children and teenagers whose newly erupted permanent teeth are most susceptible to decay, providing long-lasting protection against dental caries. 

Composition of Dental Sealants: Key Materials Explained

Here are the key materials used in dental sealants:

Resin-based Sealants

Resin-based sealants are crafted from a durable composite resin that forms a robust bond directly onto the tooth’s surface. This application creates a protective shield that effectively seals off deep pits and fissures, areas particularly prone to bacterial buildup and subsequent decay. These sealants are highly effective in preventing cavities on molars and premolars, crucial teeth that endure significant chewing forces and are more vulnerable to dental caries.

Glass Ionomer Sealants

These sealants consist of a mixture of glass and acrylic. One of their notable features is their ability to release fluoride, which strengthens the enamel of the treated tooth. This fluoride release mechanism enhances the tooth’s resistance to acid attacks and decay. Glass ionomer sealants are commonly applied in areas where the chewing pressure is less intense or where additional fluoride protection is beneficial, providing a versatile option for preventive dental care strategies. 

How Dental Sealants Work to Protect Teeth?

Dental sealants work by making a protective barrier on the chewing layers of molars and premolars, where tooth decay commonly occurs. Here’s how they protect teeth:

  • Sealing Pits and Fissures: Sealants are applied as a liquid resin that flows into the pits and fissures of the teeth. Once hardened, they form a smooth surface that covers these vulnerable areas.
  • Preventing Food and Plaque Accumulation: The sealed surface makes it difficult for food particles and plaque to accumulate in the deep grooves of the teeth. This reduces the risk of bacteria feeding on food debris and producing acids that can lead to cavities.
  • Blocking Acid and Bacteria: By forming a physical barrier, sealants prevent acid and bacteria from direct contact with the tooth enamel. This helps to maintain the integrity of the enamel and prevents demineralization, which is the initial stage of tooth decay.
  • Enhancing Oral Hygiene: Sealants make it easier to clean teeth through brushing and flossing by providing a smoother surface that is less likely to trap plaque. This supports better oral hygiene practices, reducing the risk of cavities. 

Benefits of Dental Sealants

Here are the key advantages of using dental sealants:

  • Supports Natural Tooth Structure: Sealants preserve the natural structure of teeth by preventing the need for invasive treatments like fillings or crowns that may be necessary if decay progresses unchecked.
  • Enhances Chewing Surfaces: By smoothing out uneven chewing surfaces, sealants improve the efficiency of chewing and biting, which can contribute to better digestion and overall oral function.
  • Complements Fluoride Treatment: Sealants work synergistically with fluoride treatments to provide comprehensive protection against tooth decay, especially in high-risk individuals.
  • Economic Savings: The cost of applying sealants is typically lower than the expense of treating cavities and other dental problems, making it a cost-effective preventive measure in the long run. 

Application Process: What to Expect?

The application process of dental sealants in Excelsior involves several straightforward steps to ensure effective protection against tooth decay:

  • Preparation: The dentist begins by cleaning and drying the teeth that receive the sealants. This step makes sure that the sealant adheres properly to the tooth surface.
  • Etching (Optional): In some cases, the dentist may apply an etching gel to roughen the surface of the tooth slightly. This helps the sealant bond more securely to the enamel.
  • Application: The sealant material, either resin-based or glass ionomer, is carefully applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth. It is typically a clear or tooth-colored liquid that flows into the pits and fissures.
  • Bonding: A special curing light is utilized to harden the sealant material quickly. This process creates a durable and protective shield over the tooth surface.
  • Evaluation: Once the sealant is hardened, the dentist checks its placement and ensures it effectively covers all necessary areas of the tooth.
  • Completion: The entire process usually takes only a few minutes per tooth. Patients can immediately resume normal activities like eating and drinking after sealants are applied. 

Who Should Get Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are recommended for various individuals, especially those at higher risk of developing cavities. Here’s who should consider getting dental sealants:

  • Children and Teenagers: Sealants are highly beneficial for children and teenagers right after their permanent molars and premolars erupt. These teeth often have deep pits and fissures that are difficult to clean diligently with regular brushing, making them susceptible to decay.
  • Adults with Deep Grooves: Adults having deep grooves and fissures on their molars and premolars can also benefit from sealants. These areas can catch food particles and bacteria, contributing to decay over time.
  • High-risk Individuals: Individuals with a history of cavities or prone to dental caries due to factors like poor oral hygiene, a diet high in sugars, or dry mouth conditions should consider sealants. Sealants provide an added layer of protection against decay in these vulnerable individuals.
  • Patients with Dental Restorations: Sealants can also be applied to teeth with existing dental restorations (such as fillings) to prevent recurrent decay in the surrounding tooth structure. 

Longevity and Maintenance of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are durable and can provide effective protection against cavities for several years with proper care and maintenance:

Longevity

Sealants can last much longer, up to 5 to 10 years, depending on the type of sealant used and the individual’s oral hygiene habits. Regular dental check-ups are essential to oversee the state of the sealants and ensure they remain intact.

Maintenance

To maximize the lifespan and effectiveness of dental sealants:

  • Good Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush two times a day utilizing fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to eradicate food particles and plaque from the teeth, including the sealed areas.
  • Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Refrain from biting hard objects or utilizing teeth as tools to prevent damage to the sealants.
  • Monitor Sealant Wear: Be aware of any changes in the sealants, such as chipping or wearing away. Promptly report any concerns to the dentist near you for evaluation.
  • Dietary Considerations: Maintain a balanced diet low in sugary and acidic foods and beverages. These substances can add to enamel erosion and compromise the effectiveness of dental sealants over time. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, dental sealants are pivotal tools in preventive dentistry, offering substantial protection against cavities for patients of all ages. By effectively sealing vulnerable tooth surfaces, sealants help maintain optimal oral health and lessen the need for extensive dental treatments over time. Whether you’re considering sealants for yourself or your family, consulting with your dentist ensures personalized guidance and proactive care to enhance your dental well-being. Ready to safeguard your smile with dental sealants near you? Schedule a consultation at Town Dental – Excelsior today to discover how sealants can protect your teeth and enhance your oral health journey.

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