Brushing is not always enough, especially when it comes to those hard-to-reach spots in your mouth. It is difficult for your toothbrush to get in between the small cracks and grooves on your teeth where tooth decay can develop so easily. Sealants give your teeth extra protection against decay and help prevent cavities.
Dental sealants are plastic resins that bond and harden in the deep grooves on a tooth’s surface. When a tooth is sealed, the tiny grooves become smooth and are less likely to harbor plaque. With sealants in place, brushing your teeth becomes easier and more effective.
Sealants are typically applied to children’s teeth after their permanent teeth have erupted. However, adults can also receive sealants on healthy teeth. It is more common to seal permanent teeth than baby teeth, but every patient has unique needs.
Sealants typically last from 3 to 5 years. Although, it is fairly common to see adults with sealants still intact from childhood. A dental sealant only provides protection when it is intact, so if your sealants come off, let us know, and schedule an appointment for your teeth to be resealed.