Dental sealants that are also known as pit or fissure sealants are used for preventing tooth decay. Since both front and back teeth have recesses on biting surfaces (fissures or grooves on back teeth and pits on front teeth) they become vulnerable to tooth decay. This is because food and bacteria often remain stuck on them. Unless you take care they remain neglected areas. To save your teeth from bacterial buildup, Aye Dental offers dental sealants in Chula Vista.
What Are Dental Sealants Used For?
Dental sealants are materials placed in the pits and fissures to fill them in to create a smooth surface that becomes easy to clean. A dental sealant works as a protective coating that is verily painted onto the chewing surfaces of teeth. Sealants thus act as barriers for preventing cavities and help keep a child's teeth healthy. Dental sealants are largely meant for children with a higher risk of tooth decay and are placed just as molar teeth come up.
Benefits Of Dental Sealants
- Protects the grooves of molars from bacteria and decay.
- Particularly beneficial for children and teenagers.
- A painless, quick procedure that prevents future cavities.
- Lasts for several years with minimal maintenance.
Improves Oral Health
Reduces the risk of further dental issues.
Protects Your Smile
Forms a shield to shield the tooth grooves from food particle accumulation and bacteria buildup.
Do Sealants Work Better Than Fillings?
Both sealants and fillings are minor dental procedures. Both can be done quickly and do not take much time. Sealants protect the teeth from harmful bacteria. Fillings, on the other hand, repair cavities and also fix any chipping or cracks in the teeth. They are both only similar in how they help in protecting the surfaces of teeth.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Sealants?
The one disadvantage about sealants is that since they are resin-based they do contain the tiniest bit of BPA. This irks some people. Also, although sealants are very durable they could at times be ineffective. This may be the case for both children and adults for individual reasons. They may not work if dental decay or cavities are deeper.
When Can You Eat After Dental Sealants?
Patients want to know when they may eat or drink once the sealants are in place. You will be glad to note that you can start eating regular food and drinks immediately afterward. However, as a measure of caution, it is important to bear in mind not to eat any hard, sticky, or chewy kinds of foods. These will probably end up chipping or even eroding the new sealants. It's best to consume these foods carefully and in moderation even later.
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Sealants usually last for up to 8 to 10 years. However you may get them examined regularly during your periodic dental check-up visits. This would ensure that all is well with them and they are not chipped or getting worn off. If such is the case, the dentist will do a repair job by adding sealant material.
Can Cavities Grow Under Sealants?
The only chance of a cavity developing beneath the sealant is when the sealant material is not stuck properly on the surface of the tooth. If sealants fail to adhere well and good then a cavity may occur. This usually happens if the cleaning or drying of the tooth before placement of the sealant has been faulty or the sealant has flaws. Good Dental sealants in Chula Vista cost around $30 to $60 per tooth.
Frequently asked questions
Sealants create a smooth, protective barrier that shields the grooves and pits of teeth from food particles and bacteria, increasing the risk of dental cavities. Effective dental hygiene is crucial for their removal and for maintaining oral health.
Sealants can last between 5 to 10 years but should be checked regularly during dental visits for wear and tear.
No, the procedure is completely painless and does not require drilling or anesthesia.
Sealants can be placed over early-stage decay to prevent further damage, but they cannot treat existing large cavities.
