What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are safe, clear tooth coverings that can seal your tooth up so you’re protected from cavities. Sealants are often recommended for children’s teeth because they can be at risk, especially if their molars have deep pits or grooves.
It’s best to put sealants on the first permanent molars and premolars when they grow in because they can be more prone to cavities. Sealants will protect these first permanent teeth so they can be healthier for longer.
How Do Dental Sealants Work?
The dental sealants application is pain-free and noninvasive. All that Dr. Stroumpos will do is thoroughly clean and prepare the teeth, then brush on the safe plastic seals.
Sealants last for many years and Dr. Stroumpos will check on them at each appointment to ensure they don’t need a touch-up. Sealants can become damaged or fall off but are easily replaced.
If you think your child’s sealants need to be examined, call our office at 281-286-3838 to get in touch.
Who Is a Candidate for Sealants?
Dental sealants are commonly recommended for children’s permanent molars and premolars as they grow in. This is because these teeth can have deep pits or grooves that are difficult to clean. Since these teeth perform most of the chewing work, they’re more exposed to foods and are more at risk for cavities.
But adults can also benefit from dental sealants. If you have a tooth that’s particularly at risk due to its shape, we may place a sealant over it for additional protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants can last up to 10 years if they’re cared for properly. They also don’t have to be removed because they’ll wear out with time — but this also means they can wear out without our knowledge.
At your regular dental exam and cleaning, your dentist will check on the sealants in case they’ve worn out and recommend a touch-up, if necessary. The hardened, safe plastic material used for sealants is durable though, as long as you aren’t putting abnormal amounts of stress on your teeth.
Can adults get dental sealants?
Yes, adults can get dental sealants. While sealants are often recommended for children as their permanent teeth begin growing in, there’s no reason why an adult can’t get a sealant.
Sealants can be particularly useful for potentially troublesome teeth. If Dr. Stroumpos identifies a tooth that may be at risk for cavities due to its shape, he may suggest a sealant for it.
Are dental sealants worth it?
The worth of dental sealants to you depends on your situation. They can be invaluable for protecting your teeth from cavities if you have particularly vulnerable teeth.
Early tooth protection is particularly important. Sealants can set children up for better dental health by shielding their first permanent teeth from harm. That means their teeth will likely last longer and they won’t require as many invasive procedures to recover from decay.
Are dental sealants safe?
Are dental sealants safe?
Yes, dental sealants are safe. They’re extremely effective at protecting teeth from decay and cavities, which can spare you or your child from needing more invasive procedures. The best way to avoid cavities is to prevent them from ever forming.
While sealants are made from hardened plastic, they’re biocompatible. The levels of BPA in this plastic is so small, it won’t cause any harm. The benefits of cavity protection and oral disease prevention are invaluable.
Contact Us to Learn More
Curious about dental sealants? Feel free to contact us for answers to your questions or simply for more information.
You can reach us by calling 281-286-3838 or by filling out our online contact form, available on this page. We look forward to speaking with you about your child’s dental care.