Cavities are a common issue that many suffer from, leading to discomfort, pain, and even sensitivity, or even making you insecure about your smile.
However, protecting your teeth from dental caries is possible; in fact, it is relatively easy and accessible to many.
Besides a proper oral hygiene routine, you can discuss getting dental sealants to prevent tooth decay. Here’s what you must know regarding this procedure.
If you want to achieve the perfect smile without the hassles of traditional braces, a dental bridge might be precisely what you need.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are coatings applied to the top surfaces of teeth in order to prevent cavities.
They are a thin, resin-like material that is bonded to the teeth’s surface to fill in the grooves and pits where bacteria can hide and cause cavities.
This procedure helps close the curves where plaque can build up, making it difficult for acids to sit on top of the tooth and wear down its enamel.
With the help of cosmetic dentistry in Dubai, you can cover chips, cracks, and discoloration to increase confidence in your smile.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are recommended for children and adolescents who have permanent molars, and that’s because these teeth are the most susceptible to cavities due to their deep grooves and pits that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush.
That being said, dental sealants can also be helpful for adults who are at high risk for cavities, such as those who have dry mouths or who smoke.
Basically, sealants are useful and applicable for everyone as long as they consult their dentist.
What Is the Dental Sealant’s Application Process?
The application process for dental sealants is painless and easy, and it usually takes about 15 minutes.
The teeth are cleaned first and then dried; then, a specific gel is put on the tooth before it gets cleaned again.
The last steps are to paint the sealant on top of the tooth and then cure it with a special light. Once the sealant is cured, it is smooth and hard, and it will last for several years.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Sealants?
Generally speaking, dental sealants have 2 main benefits, and these are:
- Dental sealants can help to prevent cavities. Dental sealants can fill in the grooves and pits where bacteria can hide and cause cavities, reducing the risk of developing caries.
- Dental sealants are a non-invasive procedure that is safe for children and adults.
Things to Consider Before Getting Dental Sealants
Even if it’s an easy, non-invasive procedure, there are things to consider before getting it done, including:
- The Cost:
Dental sealants are typically covered by dental insurance. However, there may be a copayment or deductible; consider your options and have a discussion with your dental care provider.
- Time:
Although dental sealants are applied in a simple, painless procedure that takes about 15 minutes only, you still have to make time for an appointment with your dentist to have them applied.
- The potential side effects
Dental sealants are a safe and effective procedure. However, side effects may still happen, including:
- Sensitivity to certain foods and drinks: a temporary side effect that is usually resolved within a few days.
- Discoloration of the sealant is a rare side effect that may happen if the sealant is not applied properly.
Overall, dental sealants are a safe and effective way to prevent cavities. They are especially beneficial for children and adolescents who have permanent molars, but they can still be applied to milk teeth, especially considering that kids are more likely to consume sugary snacks than adults.
If you are considering getting dental sealants, be sure to talk to your dentist, as they will definitely help you determine if dental sealants are the right preventive choice for you and your child and the process necessary to get them.
