15 Quick Facts About Dental Sealants
1. Sealants are a thin plastic coating that is painted on the tooth surface to fill the grooves and pits.
2. The coating is hardened to protect the tooth surface from decay.
3. Dental sealants keep out food and germs that cause decay.
4. Sealants are safe and easy to apply.
5. Children ages six to thirteen benefit the most from sealants.
6. The chewing surfaces of children’s teeth are susceptible to decay because children have a harder time cleaning the tiny grooves and pits on certain teeth, and fluoride is not necessarily as effective on the teeth in this area.
7. Adults also can benefit from this procedure because they have the same grooves and pits.
8. You may be a good candidate for dental sealants if you have a disability or do not use fluoridated water.
9. Sealants are usually applied to permanent molars as soon as they completely erupt from the gums.
10. Approximately three-quarters of sealed teeth remain cavity free, compared to less that one-third of teeth without sealants.
11. Sealants can save time, money and discomfort from more invasive procedures and help maintain intact teeth by preventing decay, which destroys tooth structure.
12. No tooth structure is removed when sealants are applied.
13. Sealants can only be seen up close. They can be clear, white, or slightly tinted, and usually are not seen while talking or smiling.
14. Dental sealants can last for as long as 5 to 10 years.
15. Sealants are one part of a total preventive dental care. A complete preventive dental program also includes fluoride, twice-daily brushing, wise food choices, and regular dental care.
If you have questions about sealants or would like to schedule an appointment, call us at 866-478-7695.
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