Are Dental Sealants Worth It

The good oral hygiene is a daily commitment. We know brushing and flossing twice a day is what we should do to be in good oral health. However, did you know that there are more ways to prevent your teeth from decay over a long period of time? 

Dental sealants are a great option to ensure that your teeth are protected. It is a fast and easy semi-permanent solution, which acts like a shield to your teeth. Can that actually save you from cavities anyways? We’re going to give you some information so that you can decide whether the procedure is worth it or on.

The Process

Sealant material is applied to your molars and premolars, on the chewing surfaces. Their job is to guard against food particles that feed plaque. For a bonding  material, most dentists use acrylic resin.

Your tooth will be cleaned and sealed with a pumice paste. After rinsing it and etching solution will be used to roughen the surface, so that the bonding material  can adhere to the enamel. After one more rinsing a liquid form of sealant will be applied on the biting surface of the tooth. With the help of a light, the sealant bonds to the tooth and hardens. Sealants could also be a plastic coating usually placed on the back of a tooth.

When should you consider sealants?

The best time to apply dental sealants is when kids get their permanent teeth. However, adults could also have sealants as a part of their preventative dentistry.

How much do sealants actually protect your teeth?

According to the American Dental Association  sealants can reduce cavities in children by 60%. Children are more prone to cavities so thinking about their prevention is crucial. You could save your kid a lot of stressful time in the dental chair by applying this procedure.

What are the disadvantages of dental sealants?

There are really not much we can say here. What you need to know is if a decay already exists sealants may seal in it. They are optional, they don’t last forever and they represent an additional cost.

Why should you get dental sealants?

Even the best brushing can’t remove all of the decay-causing particles. So applying an additional coating to your teeth as a shield is a plus. They are especially good for kids who might not brush their back teeth that well. Also they are hardly noticeable once they are in.

Are they safe?

Safety is always most important especially when considering a procedure for children. Studies have shown that the exposure to large amount of the synthetic compound can be harmful. Since sealants are made of plastic, they may sometimes be thought to be unsafe. 

However, a research by The American Dental Association shows that the amounts of BPA are well below anything that might cause harm.

Cost of dental sealants

There are dental insurance plans that cover the costs for children. Even if your plan doesn’t cover it, the price of that procedure is usually lower than for getting a filling. Actually if you have multiple cavities, those costs can add up so a one-time application of sealant could be more cost-effective.

How long do they last?

Sealants can actually last on your teeth for about 5 year or sometimes more. They need to be checked for chipping so your regular twice a year dental check-ups are a must. Your dentist might consider replacing sealants as necessary.

Conclusion

Now that you know more about dental sealants you are able to get your informed decision for yourself or for your child. Dental sealants are a great service from the preventative dentistry which may save you trouble with cavities.

If there is anything else you need to know about dental sealants, just contact Gallegos Family Dentistry. And if you choose to do that, book your appointment right away. Dr. Philip Gallegos will provide you with the best service at a perfectly affordable cost.