What is a Dental Sealant?

A sealant acts as a form of physical protection for our teeth from cavities and bacteria. A sealant is usually made of plastic and is usually placed on the molars, as these are typically the most difficult to properly clean.

Sealants act as a sort of shield to the food and bacteria that can cause cavities. When food becomes trapped and is not properly cleaned away with brushing or flossing, it begins to break down and release acids that spark the decaying of our teeth. But even when you properly brush or floss, bits of food can get stuck and left behind.

A sealant prevents that food from getting in the nooks and crannies of your molars and teeth. When the food cannot settle in these areas, it is more easily brushed away and you do not run the same risk of developing cavities. This is because the food will not break down inside the tooth, so the bacteria will not begin to release the harmful acids that cause cavities.

Sealants should be paired with proper brushing and flossing routines. While a sealant can help you reduce your risk of developing cavities, it does not work as a

Who Should Get a Sealant?

Sealants are a proactive procedure, so anyone should get them if they are worried about developing cavities. You do not already need to have cavities if you want to get a sealant.

Many dentists recommend having your children’s teeth sealed as they come in to reduce the risk of cavities as soon as you can. If you choose to go through the process of getting your teeth sealed, you will face less cavities in the future, which can save you time and money needing to get the cavities filled and repaired.

Discuss your options for dental sealants with your dentist, especially if you have young children who are just getting their molars grown in. Because children are also known to gravitate towards sugary junk food and may have a harder time cleaning their teeth, protecting the teeth as soon as they grow in is a great way to prevent cavities from forming.

How Dos the Dental Sealant Process Work?

The dental sealant process is not something to be worried about. The entire process is pain free and can be done quickly.

To begin the process, your dentist will apply a gel that is designed to roughen the tooth. This allows the tooth and the sealant to create a better bond and to ensure that the sealant sticks to the tooth properly. The gel will be left on your tooth for a few seconds while it does its job.

Next, your dentist will rinse of the gel and dry your tooth to prepare for the next step. Once your teeth are properly dried, they will apply the sealant. The sealant will be applied into the groves of your teeth to ensure that all areas are covered and protected.

After the sealant has settled, your dentist will use a special light that hardens the sealant and locks it in place. Once the sealant is hardened, the procedure is done and your teeth are protected.

Sealants last for a few years but will need to be reapplied as they wear off. Your dentist will have personal preferences about when you should re-do the sealant procedure, so be sure to discuss this with them while getting your first procedure done.

Is a Sealant Right for Me?

Just about anyone can benefit from having a dental sealant. Because it acts as another layer of protection from cavities and harmful bacteria, a sealant can help keep your teeth healthy. As an added bonus, sealants are clear, so your dentist will still be able to check your teeth to ensure they’re staying healthy and free of decay.

If you’re looking for a sealant procedure for you or your children, contact your doctor to begin setting up an appointment. The dental team at Boynton Laser Dental can help you get, maintain, and protect your teeth so you will always have a smile that you’re confident to show off. Reach out to our office in Boynton Beach, Florida to discuss what we can do for you, your teeth, and your smile.