Wednesday, October 16, 2019

What Are Dental Sealants?

While a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss are typically the first line of defense against cavities, they aren't completely effective in protecting teeth from cavities. The rough, uneven surface of molars (the back teeth) makes them prone to a buildup of food, acid, and bacteria, even in those with flawless hygiene habits. Many dentists recommend sealants as another way to protect molars from cavities and decay.

What Are Sealants?


Sealants essentially “seal” teeth to prevent food particles and debris from building up in the nooks and crannies of the back teeth. Made from a thin protective coating adhered to the teeth, sealants are almost 80% effective in reducing the risk of tooth decay, according to the American Dental Association. The Centers for Disease Control also stresses the effectiveness—and importance—of sealants, particularly in pediatric patients: on average, kids without sealants have nearly three times as many cavities as those with sealants.

Depending on the patient, sealants can last up to 10 years before wearing down, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. They can be applied quickly and painlessly, and they have no known side effects.

Why Are Sealants Necessary?


To understand why sealants work so well, it's helpful to understand how cavities form. After eating, leftover food particles and debris build up around the teeth. As bacteria in the mouth come into contact with this debris, cavity-causing acids are produced that begin creating tiny holes, called cavities, in the teeth. This can even happen to people who brush religiously because toothbrush bristles often cannot reach into the deep nooks and crannies of the molars. Sealants work to fill these deep spots so that food and bacteria can't become trapped and cause a cavity.

Who Can Benefit From Sealants?


Sealants aren't right for every patient, but many people of all ages can benefit from them. At Hanson Dentistry, Dr. Robert N. Hanson evaluates each patient to determine if sealants could help protect their teeth from cavities. This includes children with recent molar development in order to keep their chompers healthy and cavity-free from the get-go. However, many adults also use sealants—even those who have early decay—to try to prevent further cavity development. In addition, some people are more prone to molar decay because of the structure of their teeth, and sealants add another layer of protection against harmful cavity-causing debris.

If you believe you or your children could benefit from sealants, Dr. Hanson can clean and evaluate your teeth to make a recommendation. He applies sealants in-office at Hanson Dentistry. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment options to provide all patients with access to quality dental care. Call our office in Independence, MO at 816-373-5606 to schedule an appointment.