Dental sealants are the clear plastic coat to the pitted and grooved teeth surfaces. When cared for properly, they offer a layer of protection against tooth decay and plaque build-up for numerous years. This preventive treatment is not exclusive to children. Therefore, anyone can get this treatment to avoid tooth decay.
What Are the Different Materials Used for Sealants?
Dental sealants near you can be made from the following materials:
Glass Ionomer
Glass ionomers combine well with the original tooth shade of the patient. That is why the majority of individuals prefer them. These dental sealants can bond to the tooth enamel and dentine after using polyacrylic acid conditions for cleaning. Glass ionomer sealants also release fluoride, which makes the enamel strong for many years.
The
dentist in Evergreen Park uses glass ionomer sealants mainly for the primary teeth. Glass ionomer sealants are best for kids that are less than 5 years and at risk of losing their primary teeth.
Pros
- Fluoride has antibacterial properties that help to minimize the risk of dental decay.
- They mix well with the color of the original teeth.
- The fluoride ions in glass ionomer sealant offer protection after the leakage by mineralizing tooth enamel.
Cons
- These sealants are not as long-lasting as composite resin sealants. So, they need more maintenance.
Composite Resin
Composite resin sealants are a combination of plastic and ceramic compound.
Dentist 60805 recommends permanent as well as primary teeth.
The dentist uses composite resin dental sealants to offer protection against cavities for longer.
They have a plastic compound that resembles the natural teeth shape. The professional uses a dental curing light to apply composite resin sealant. They are water repelling. This property helps to keep bacterial contamination at bay.
Pros
- Composite resin materials have a high retention rate as compared to glass ionomers.
- They have a lifespan of 5 to 10 years. It makes them much more durable than glass ionomer sealants.
- This kind of dental sealant is strong. It is of the same color as that of the original teeth.
Cons
- They wear and tear with time.
- Composite resin dental sealants don’t have acid-based bonding properties.
- They do not release fluoride.
- Composite resin materials are more prone to moisture.
Polyacid Modified Resin
Polyacid-modified resin dental sealants are also known as “compomers.” It is a mixture of glass ionomer and resin sealants.
Pros
- They are suitable for children.
- These types of dental sealants are hydrophobic, which means they do not contain water.
Cons
- Polyacid-modified resin sealants produce fluoride in low amounts.
Advantages of Sealants
Although the dentist can repair teeth with decay, the lost portion cannot be recoverable. Baby teeth play an essential role in holding the right spacing for permanent teeth. Therefore, it is pivotal to keep them healthy and strong.
Safeguarding the teeth of a child while they are still young is essential to prevent damage from occurring later on. Depressions and grooves in our mouth are the areas where bacterial build-up from leftover beverages and foods is common. It makes it likely to eat away the tooth enamel.
Let us check out the pros of getting sealants:
- Dental sealants are less costly and simple as compared to a dental fillings. The majority of dental insurance providers cover sealant costs. But it’s mainly for those of age less than 18. You must check with your dental insurance provider to determine if it’s covered under the plan.
- The process of applying sealant is completely pain-free. It also does not include a change to the tooth surface.
- Tooth decay can occur at any age. Therefore, teenagers, children, and anyone else can reap the advantages of the treatment.
- Sealants are white or clear, which makes them barely noticeable.
- They help withstand the natural pressure of eating.
- After a few years, you do not need to reapply the sealant.
Note: Although they do a great job in protecting teeth, they don’t replace routine dental exams and cleanings, good dental hygiene practices, and healthy eating habits.
During your consultation, the dentist at
Family Dental Care – Evergreen Park will find out if you or your kid is an ideal candidate for the treatment. Then, he/she will apply the sealant to the teeth during a similar appointment as a dental exam or cleaning.
