Invisalign and braces are the most common dentistry cosmetics, but sealants have also become a popular option for most orthodontic patients. For some reasons, even with proper hygiene, the teeth are still susceptible to decay, which is why sealants come in handy.
In simple terms, dental sealants are a plastic coating applied on the chewing surface of the teeth, especially around the molar and premolar to help prevent tooth decay. The sealants rapidly bonds with the grooves of the teeth, forming a protective sheet over the top of the teeth.
This chewing surface of the molar and premolar has rough edges known as grooves which makes them susceptible to decay. These edges are hard to clean when brushing or flossing. Our toothbrush have a hard time penetrating deep into the surface, thereby resulting in the accumulation of plaques.
Unfortunately, these plaques contain bacteria which affects the enamel, thereby resulting to decay and other conditions. The fluoride present in toothpaste was originally designed to help prevent tooth decay, but no matter the amount used, it always makes a call for extra protection. Sealants lend that additional support to the teeth by providing a smooth covering over the grooved areas.
Dental Sealants can be applied right from childhood. The first sealants are installed on the grooves of the first molar tooth once it erupts beyond the gum. If the chewing surface is sealed with sealants, the risk of decay and cavity is minimised.
Most times, the molar and premolar continue to erupt even beyond the age of 13 and the chewing surface of the teeth can be sealed once they’ve erupted beyond the gum and not before. However, the wisdom teeth which erupts much later are left out of this process.
The molar and Premolar are the only set of teeth that comes with fissures — thanks to their flat surface. These areas come with deep fissures in contrast to that of the incisor and canine whose edges appear to be pointed or smooth at the top.
Dental Sealants are therefore only used on the part of the teeth with deep grooves since they’re more likely to accumulate bacteria. While sealants are hardly recommended to babies, there are exceptions where the molar in the baby teeth have grooves that could benefit from the protection offered by sealants.
Sealants are placed at the eruption of the molar teeth making it more suitable for older children than adults. However, there are situations where sealants are recommended to adults. While this is rare, it may be installed on the grooves of teeth that do not have fillings.
Yes, it’s possible. Even if your child has braces on, it doesn’t stop them from having sealants. It’s recommended to take extra measures in protecting them from cavities even when they’re seeing an orthodontist.
Dental Sealants can last for as long as five years. During this period, you will have to brush your teeth twice daily and stay away from hard food that may damage the sealants. Regular Medical check-up is necessary to ensure the sealants remain in the right position.
Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about what people will say if your child is seen with a sealant because most times, they’re tinted and blends with the colour of the teeth. Even when a child smiles or talks, it cannot be seen.
Sealants are applied on just the area of the teeth with grooves. Their protection is limited to this area. Fluoride, on the other hand, gives total protection to all the teeth, including the incisors and the canines.
Talk to your dentist, and if you don’t have one, visit Harley Street London — there are numerous dentists there. You will likely find several dentists that Install sealants. During your first appointment, ask questions on areas you’re not clear about to gain more knowledge about the whole process.
Placing sealants is usually pain-free and doesn’t come with any numbing sensation except for the first few days where it brushes on the tongue. The process for sealants application is in three phases namely: Tooth preparation, sealant preparation, and evaluation. During tooth preparation, the teeth are cleaned to remove plaques while the second phase is where the sealants are finally applied.
The Evaluation Phase is where your dentist will check on the sealants to ensure they’re properly applied. However, most Harley street London dentists recommend regular check-up to ensure the sealants don’t come out unexpectedly.
Sealants shouldn’t be taken as an alternative to flossing or brushing. Even with sealants, you should engage in your regular cleaning routine like brushing twice daily and visiting the dentist every six months for dental scaling. Do pay a visit to us today and our Harley street dentist will help you with your tooth condition diagnosis and administer dental sealants or the necessary treatment.
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