What Are Sealants?
By G.W. Schamback | Published on February 11, 2010 | 0 Comments
Sealants only became standard care procedure in the 1970s, but they are now widespread. The liquid coatings, which harden when applied to the tooth’s surface, prevent cavities by blocking out the pits and grooves which let in 90% of decay. Here, G.W. Schamback, owner of Perfect Smile Dental in Stuart, Florida, explains more about the procedure for sealants.
Sealants are liquid coatings that harden when applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. They show a great deal of effectiveness in preventing cavities even on teeth where decay has already begun.
The pits and grooves of your teeth are the source of 90% of decay in your mouth. Even regular brushing sometimes misses these intricate structures on the teeth’s chewing surfaces. By blocking out those pits and grooves, sealants are designed to prevent the intrusion of bacteria and other debris into the deep crevices on the tops of teeth.
Sealants were developed about 50 years ago, but they didn’t become standard care procedure until the 1970s. Today, sealants are becoming widely popular and effective; they are even more common than standard metal braces. Young children are the best candidates for preventative measures like sealants (especially on the first and second molars) because in many cases, decay has not yet set into their teeth. Even on teeth where decay is present, sealants have been shown to be effective in fighting additional damage.
The procedure for applying sealants takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Before sealants are applied, the tooth must be thoroughly cleaned. The cleaning is followed by “etching” the tooth with a chemical substance, which allows the sealant to adhere better. After the sealant is applied, a UV light source is directed onto the site to chemically set the sealant. Sealants usually need to be reapplied about every five to 10 years.
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.