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Protective Sealants

protective sealant

What Are Protective Sealants

Protective dental sealants, commonly referred to as fissure sealants, are an effective dental treatment for maintaining oral health. These durable plastic coatings are applied to the grooves and depressions on the surfaces of back teeth, which are often prone to trapping food particles and plaque. 
 
By bonding quickly to these areas, the sealant creates a protective barrier over the enamel, helping to prevent cavities and decay. This straightforward treatment can significantly enhance dental health and reduce the risk of future dental issues.
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Benefits of Protective Sealants

Enhanced Cavity Prevention

Studies show that sealants can significantly reduce the risk of cavities, especially in children and young adults.

Long-lasting Protection

With proper care, sealants can last for several years, offering extended protection against decay.

Pain-free and Quick Procedure

Applying sealants is a simple and painless process, typically completed in one visit.

Cost-effective

By preventing cavities, sealants can save you money in the long run compared to the cost of fillings and other treatments for tooth decay.

Children

Their developing teeth are more vulnerable to cavities. Sealants offer an additional layer of protection during this crucial stage.

children

Adults with deep grooves in their teeth

These grooves can harbour bacteria and increase the risk of cavities. Sealants can help smooth out these surfaces and prevent decay.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are made of a plastic material that a dentist or dental hygienist applies to the grooves and depressions on the surfaces of back teeth. These areas are prone to accumulating food particles and plaque, making them common sites for cavities. The sealant quickly bonds into the grooves and depressions, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth.

Dental sealants can be highly durable and provide protection against decay for many years. They can last up to 10 years with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. However, they need to be checked for chipping or wearing at regular dental appointments, and they can be replaced as necessary.

The primary use of a dental sealant is to prevent tooth decay. Sealants are especially beneficial for children and teenagers who are at a higher risk of developing cavities. However, adults without fillings or decay in their molars can also benefit from sealants. The application of a sealant is a straightforward, painless procedure that offers an extra layer of protection to the areas of teeth that are most vulnerable to decay.

No, sealants and fillings serve different purposes and are not the same:

  • Dental Sealant: It’s a preventive measure applied to the biting surfaces of healthy back teeth to protect them from decay. Sealants are usually clear or white and are not easily visible. They are applied before any decay has occurred or very early in the decay process.

  • Dental Filling: It’s a restorative treatment used to repair a tooth that has already been damaged by decay. The decayed tooth material is removed, and the cavity is filled with a filling material, such as amalgam, composite resin, gold, or ceramic. Fillings are designed to restore the integrity and function of the tooth.

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