Protective Sealants

Dental sealants are a coating of plastic that is painted onto the teeth to help shield them from decay-causing bacteria. They can be used on children’s teeth, and adult patients can also benefit from them. They are typically applied to molars, the teeth most often affected by tooth decay.

The plastic sealant is bonded to the tooth enamel to create a barrier that prevents plaque and tartar from accumulating on the tooth’s surface. At Smiles of Midtown, we recommend sealing teeth with dental sealants to make them stronger and more resistant to cavities. Sealants also lower the risk of needing fillings or crowns in the future.

While brushing twice a day is recommended for everyone, it is essential for people who get their teeth sealed. Without proper dental care, the sealants won’t last as long and must be replaced more often than necessary. Brushing and flossing daily will keep the area around your teeth clean and free of food debris. This will extend the life of your dental sealants and help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Who Can Get Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are most commonly recommended for younger patients but can also benefit adults. Sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent cavities and tooth decay. 

Dental sealants can last up to ten years when properly placed and maintained. Children should get their first dental sealants between the ages of six and twelve. However, it’s important to remember that your child is never too young to start getting dental care! Our dentist can evaluate your oral condition to see if you or your child would benefit from having dental sealants placed. 

The Benefits of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are hard plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, especially the molars and premolars. Their main purpose is to keep food and cavity-causing bacteria from getting trapped in the crevices of these teeth and causing decay. 

Dental sealants are quick and painless and the dentist can apply them during your regular checkups. The sealant bonds right onto the tooth enamel as it hardens to create a tough shield that effectively blocks harmful bacteria and food particles.

This preventive treatment can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay and the need for restoration later in life. Many people don’t realize just how important it is to take care of the back and biting surfaces of the teeth, which are responsible for breaking down tough foods before they enter the body. If bacteria and food particles can get trapped here, it can lead to severe tooth decay and even infection.

Dental sealants are highly effective in preventing tooth decay on any tooth that has decay or risk for decay. To learn more about dental sealants, visit Smiles of Midtown at 3600 San Jacinto St, Houston, TX 77004, or call (713) 523-6848.