Which Teeth Are Recommended for Sealants?

Brushing and flossing prevent cavities, decay, and other oral diseases. But sometimes, you can’t always be thorough with your oral hygiene when you miss some spots in your teeth, plaque, and tartar build in, triggering dental decay.

If your teeth are at risk of cavities, there’s yet another preventive measure you can add to your oral care regimen. Dental sealants from Goochland Dentistry in Manakin-Sabot, Virginia, shield your decay-prone teeth from harmful bacteria. Although dental sealants are common in children, any age can benefit.

How sealants protect teeth

Dental sealants are thin, protective plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. They aim to create a barrier that shields your teeth from harmful bacteria that can cause cavities and tooth decay. While teeth sealants aren’t substitutes for brushing and flossing, they effectively ward off cavities.

Which teeth are ideal for dental sealants?

All your teeth aren’t created equal. Your back teeth — the premolars and molars — have tiny grooves that aid in grinding and chewing food. These grooves and pits can trap food and bacteria, causing decay. While you may brush your teeth daily, these pits can be so narrow for your toothbrush, making it challenging to clean your teeth. The case is even worse for children because they aren’t thorough with their oral hygiene.

When you miss spots in your teeth, dental calculus accumulates over time. Plaque and tartar contain bad bacteria that secrete acidic substances that erode your enamel. This enamel erosion creates a cavity that, if not treated, can result in costly and extensive dental work.

When dental sealants are applied to your cavity-prone teeth, they create a smooth surface for easy cleaning. Furthermore, your teeth stay cavity-free because bacteria struggle to thrive on smooth surfaces.

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Who should get dental sealants?

The beauty of dental sealants is they are ideal for patients of all ages. We recommend sealants for children as young as six years. Why? The first molar breaks at around age six. We recommend sealing teeth as soon as they come out to deny cavities the chance of damaging them. Sometimes, we may suggest sealants for baby teeth with deep pits and grooves.

What about adults? Adults, too, can benefit from dental sealants. Teeth sealants are not just for children, adults who are at risk of cavities and decay can also benefit from them.

Achieve a cavity-free smile with dental sealants

Don’t let cavities damage your beautiful smile. Outshine them by applying dental sealants to prevent them from developing in the first place. Ready to experience the protective powers of dental sealants? Please call (804) 784 4624 to schedule an appointment with the Goochland Dentistry team.