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Dental Sealants: We've Got You Covered
What are dental sealants?
A dental sealant is a plastic material used to protect the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Dental sealants are
applied to decay-prone surfaces of the teeth, usually the back molars and pre-molars. Sealants come in the form
of a liquid which quickly hardens to form a shield over these chewing surfaces.
Why get sealants?
Sealants keep out the germs and food that cause tooth decay. The chewing surfaces of the back teeth are rough
and uneven and generally have small pits and grooves. Food and germs can get stuck in these uneven areas and
stay there a long time because toothbrush bristles cannot brush them away. Germs in the mouth change the sugar
in food to acid which can start a cavity in the tooth. Sealants prevent decay from ever starting.
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« A toothbrush can't get into the grooves in the back teeth to remove food and bacteria.
«Sealants fill the grooves to keep food and bacteria out.
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Who should get sealants?
Children should get sealants on their permanent molars as soon as the teeth come in, before decay has a chance to
attack the teeth.
Sealants also have an important role to play in adult dental care since adults can still get decay. Patients
afflicted with dry mouth, which affects about one-third of the adult population, can benefit greatly. Sealants
also protect worn and sensitive surfaces on adult teeth.
How are sealants put on?
First, the tooth is cleaned and dried thoroughly and prepared so the surface is a little rough and therefore
easier for the sealant to bond to. The tooth is rinsed and dried once more and the sealant is then applied in
liquid form and hardens in just a few seconds.
Besides sealants, are there other ways to prevent tooth decay?
Yes! The best way you can help prevent tooth decay is to brush with fluoride toothpaste, drink fluoridated
water, and floss regularly. Sealants and fluoride used together provide the best defence against tooth decay.
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