subject: Should You Use Dental Sealants? [print this page] No matter your taste in appetite or beverages, a healthy mouth will help you enjoy them for years to come. Whether you love popcorn, hamburgers, veggies, or yes, even sweets, regular teeth maintenance can help keep your teeth and gums in top working order. Through the crunchy and the soggy textures, a healthy and clean mouth can prevent pain or future health issues, as well. In order to keep a healthy set of teeth, it is a good idea to keep regular dental checkups. Usually the recommended frequency is every six months for a general cleaning and checkup.
This will allow the dentist to get a good look, and inform you if there are any signs of cavity, gingivitis, etc. In the meantime, one should be taking care of their teeth, as well. Brushing 2-3 times per day, regular flossing, and the use of mouthwash will also help keep your teeth clean, even when it's not left to the professionals. However, there are also a few ways to help keep you from needing frequent appointments. For those who are prone to cavities, and especially children who have their permanent teeth in place, sealants are an option for preventative treatment.
What are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a simple treatment that "seals" teeth from outside conditions, such as sugar, the formation of cavities, and acids. Dentists and their assistants will first make sure teeth are clean, and then apply the sealant, which is a plastic material that fits inside the top part of the teeth. The treatment can be applied to one or more teeth, but are only applicable to back teeth, which have chewing surfaces. The dental sealants protect the top parts of the teeth, and keep germs and food particles from getting inside, which can help prevent tooth decay, as well as cavities.
These sealants are put in with ease and do not require any cutting or drilling. The plastic material is essentially painted on and hardened, generally with a specialized light. Within a few minutes the tooth, or teeth, will be protected from outside conditions, especially food and sugars. Teeth that are most beneficial to dental sealants include permanent molars, which are likely to grow in around the age of six. Once the child has their molars, an appointment can be made to apply dental sealants and help avoid them from future dental problems.
Talk To Your Dentist
To find out more about dental sealants, your local dentist can provide specific information about the exact materials and procedures they use to help prevent tooth decay and cavities. It is also a good idea to hear more about dental sealants from the people who know them best. Remember that tooth and gum health is an important part of life and one of the easiest preventative measures is as easy as applying a protective barrier. It only takes a few minutes and the results can last through decades of meals and chewing. Consider dental sealants and improving your teeth's lasting abilities.
