You may have heard the term sealants concerning things around your house. Hardwood floors are sealed to guard against scratches, stone surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms are sealed to protect from moisture, and asphalt is sealed to protect from moisture and maintain smoothness. But what do sealants have to do with your teeth?
Your teeth are naturally protected by enamel, which is a strong layer that forms outside each of your teeth. Enamel allows your teeth to handle pressure during chewing, and it resists harmful acids that enter your mouth every day when you eat and drink. The problem is that although you have tooth enamel, some areas can become weaker than others. This is especially true for the back chewing surfaces of your teeth, which are hard to clean. Grooves in your teeth allow bacteria to accumulate, eventually putting you at risk for developing cavities.
This is where dental sealants come in to offer help to those areas of your teeth that have trouble resisting damage. The purpose of any type of sealant is to guard against things that can cause damage. The same goal is true for dental sealants. Having a sealant placed on your teeth covers grooves, aids in cleaning, and protects your teeth from acids.
Application of dental sealants is easily performed by your dentist. The thin plastic coating is just painted directly onto your teeth, where it bonds with your tooth and hardens. A special light may be used to complete the process. After a number of years the sealant may wear off, but it can be replaced as necessary by repeating the same process.
The next time you are getting a checkup at your dentist, ask about dental sealants. You may be glad you took this simple and painless step in protecting your teeth.
