Dental Sealants

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are highly effective in preventing decay on the biting surfaces of chewing teeth. They are a simple procedure in which a tooth-colored acrylic “coating” is painted onto the surface of the tooth. This effectively “seals” the deep grooves as a barrier and protects enamel from plaque and acids.

Sealants protect the depressions and grooves of your teeth from food particles and plaque that brushing and flossing can’t reach.

Easy to apply, sealants take only a few minutes to seal each tooth. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and can last several years before a reapplication is needed.

Children and adults can benefit from sealants in the fight against tooth decay.

How do sealants work?

In many cases, it is nearly impossible for children to clean the tiny grooves between their teeth. When sealant is applied, the tooth’s surface is flatter and smoother. There are no longer any places on the chewing part of the tooth that the bristles of a toothbrush can’t reach and clean. Since plaque can be removed more easily and effectively, there is much less chance that decay will start.

What is the life expectancy of tooth sealants?

Sealants’ longevity can vary. Sealants that have remained in place for three to five years would be considered successful; however, sealants can last much longer. It is not uncommon to see sealants placed during childhood still intact on the teeth of adults. Our office will check your child’s sealants during routine dental visits and recommend repair or reapplication when necessary.

Which teeth should be sealed?

Any tooth with characteristics that a sealant can correct and thus place the tooth at less risk for developing decay should be sealed. The most common teeth for a dentist to seal are a child’s “back” teeth; the molars are the most common teeth on which dental sealants are placed. The recommendation for sealants should be considered on a case-by-case basis.

What is the procedure for placing sealants?

Generally, the procedure takes just one visit. Placing dental sealants can be a very easy process. The tooth is cleaned, conditioned, and dried. The sealant then flows onto the tooth grooves, hardening it with a special blue light. The sealant is then buffed down. All normal activities can occur directly after the appointment.

How important is brushing and flossing after sealants are applied?

Brushing and flossing your child’s teeth is just as important. Sealants are only one part of the defensive plan against tooth decay.

How much does it cost?

This treatment is quite affordable, especially considering the value of protection against tooth decay. Most dental insurance companies cover sealants. Check with your insurance company about your child’s coverage.

When some children smile, they may show excessive gum tissue. This is called a gummy smile and may be due to a few different problems:

Gum irritation and overgrowth from braces. This is more likely to happen if the teeth appear short before the braces are placed on the teeth. This problem does not result from the quality of orthodontic care but from pre-treatment gum and bone thickness.

Altered passive eruption. The gum and bone normally recede as a part of the normal teeth eruption. When this normal recession doesn’t occur, the gums cover too much of the teeth, making them appear “too short.” The teeth are usually not “too short.” They are generally of normal size but are buried under the gum and bone.

If there are habits such as thumb sucking or grinding (bruxism), excessive pressure, or tooth wear can alter the appearance of the teeth. The problems may be corrected with orthodontics, surgical procedures, or dental restorations such as crowns or veneers.

Skeletal developmental problems affect the growth of the jaws and teeth. If orthodontics is instituted at 7 to 9 years of age, jaw growth can often be controlled, and cosmetics can be improved.

Before treatment, it is critical to evaluate the problems properly and get an accurate diagnosis. Some cosmetic issues can be easily corrected, while others, like skeletal problems, can be more difficult.