A dental sealant is an excellent preventive treatment for cavity-prone patients. Even with a good oral hygiene routine, some people are still vulnerable to tooth decay because of the structure and shape of their dentition. If the dentist notices that a patient is susceptible to decay despite good oral hygiene, they may recommend using dental sealants to be a protective barrier for the teeth. One of the questions patients often have about the procedure is how long the dental sealant treatment lasts.
Dentists do not advise all their patients to get sealants — mostly kids and young adults with molars and premolars, or sometimes, baby teeth. The sealant fills the deep pits and grooves of the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, which are prone to cavities because they tend to trap food debris. Food debris and bacteria on the chewing surfaces of the teeth are a recipe for tooth decay.
Before decay occurs on the teeth, the dentist can apply sealants to smooth out the chewing surfaces. The plastic barrier prevents bacteria and food particles from building up on the tooth’s surface and makes brushing much easier.
It is reasonable to worry about the effectiveness and longevity of dental sealants, considering they are made from a plastic material. However, dental sealants are created to be durable. After applying the sealant over the teeth, they can last up to 10 years with proper care. There will be no need to remove them; instead, they will gradually deteriorate over time until none of the material is left on the teeth.
As the material wears down, patients can visit the dentist to get new sealants when necessary. Nevertheless, the hardened plastic is highly durable and will withstand normal biting forces as long as it not subjected to undue stress, such as biting on hard substances or using the teeth as a tool for opening tough packages. To protect the sealant, patients must avoid chewing on hard foods, as well. Such activities can damage not only the sealant material but also the natural tooth enamel.
After the dental sealant procedure, the dentist will continue to check the structural integrity every time the patient comes in for a dental checkup and cleaning. They may reapply the sealant if it appears to be deteriorating faster than anticipated. This will ensure that the teeth are continually protected from plaque that may harden into tartar ahead of their next dental appointment.
It is important to note that the sealant is not the only method of preventing cavities, and certainly not a replacement for oral care routine. Patients will still need to brush and floss their teeth, get antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash, and maintain good dietary habits to protect their teeth from cavities.
If you think a dental sealant might be a good option for you or your child, talk to the dentist during your next appointment. If you are eligible to get sealant protection, the dentist will perform the procedure to minimize the occurrence of tooth decay.
Request an appointment here: https://www.oaktreedentalashburn.com or call Oak Tree Dental at (703) 945-1285 for an appointment in our Ashburn office.
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