How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Dental sealants are highly effective for protecting the teeth from bacteria and tooth decay. Dental sealants are safe for both adults and children and can last for up to 10 years with proper care. The dentist will decide if a patient is eligible for a dental sealant after examining the teeth. This article talks about the durability of dental sealants.

Who needs dental sealants?

Almost everyone can get dental sealants, depending on their individual situations. They are usually recommended for children because their teeth are generally more susceptible to tooth cavities than adults. However, adults can also enjoy the benefits of dental sealants.

How do dental sealants work?

To adequately understand the durability of dental sealants, it is advisable to learn about the process involved in applying them. First, the dentist will examine the teeth to assess if the patient is eligible for dental sealants. Then a separate appointment will be scheduled for the procedure because it may take a while, although the process is not invasive.

For the application, the dentist will thoroughly clean the tooth. The tooth will be dried fully because moisture can affect the success of the procedure. A barrier will be placed around the teeth to keep saliva out. The dentist will apply an etching solution to the tooth to make the sealants adhere to the surface. The tooth will be air dried again, and then it will be ready for the dental sealants. The sealant is in a liquid state; the dentist will use a brush to apply the sealant onto the tooth surface. Once applied, the material hardens soon after, marking the end of treatment.

How long do dental sealants last?

Dental sealants can survive up to 10 years. The durability typically depends on different factors, including the quality of the original procedure, the patient’s oral hygiene habits and the type of foods the patient eats often. Dentists pay special attention to sealant application. If sealants are applied poorly, they will not stand the test of time and are bound to fail. It is crucial that patients get dental sealants from reputable and experienced dentists.

Patients can maintain excellent oral hygiene practices by following their dentist’s recommendation. This means brushing and flossing daily and visiting the dentist regularly. The dentist will check the sealants during routine checkups to verify their effectiveness. With proper oral care, patients can expect to get the highest possible protection from their sealants for a long time.

Also, patients must avoid abusing their teeth. Biting or chewing on hard substances like ice and candies will wear down the dental sealants. Even seemingly simple meals such as eating popcorn and chicken can damage the sealant. If the sealant breaks, it cannot protect the teeth from decay, and it will have to be repaired or replaced.

In conclusion

Dental sealants offer significant protection against decay by preventing food debris and bacteria from adhering to the chewing surfaces of the teeth. You can consult the dentist to learn if you are eligible for dental sealants.

Request an appointment here: https://www.sacramentosleepdentist.com or call Dental Excellence of Greenhaven at (916) 293-0504 for an appointment in our Sacramento office.

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