Dental sealants are one of the more popular preventive treatments that preserve your teeth from further cavity issues. Thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth serve as a barrier against food and plaque. Although dental sealants are highly effective in preventing further decay, it’s crucial to practice proper care for sealants so they will last longer. This blog discusses ways to care for sealants after they have been applied.

Why Are Dental Sealants Important?

Dental sealants protect your molars and premolars, the teeth that are more likely to develop cavities due to their deeper grooves. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggested that sealants can reduce the risk of back tooth cavities by almost 80%. That makes sealants a key part of your dental care, particularly for children and those who have difficulty brushing in hard-to-reach areas.

How to Care for Sealants

Once your dental sealants are in place, caring for them is simple. Here are some basic tips to maintain your sealants in good condition:

Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods

Steer clear of sticky or chewy foods (such as candies, chewing gum, or hard nuts) for at least 24 hours after the procedure. This is because these types of food may damage or displace the sealant.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Sealants don’t replace the need for brushing and flossing your teeth. You still will need to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily, removing plaque to help prevent cavities. Keep the areas where the sealant was placed clean to ensure the sealant lasts.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Regular dental check-ups are essential for ensuring that your sealants are serving their intended purpose. Your dentist will check on wear and tear, and they can reapply sealants as needed. Regular visits also provide your dentist with the opportunity to identify any dental problems early on, well before they have a chance to worsen.

Watch Out for Teeth Grinding

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, tends to wear down sealants over time. If you grind your teeth, consider consulting your dentist about a custom mouthguard to protect both your sealants and your natural teeth.

Check for wear or chips

Pay attention to your sealants and watch for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or if the sealant is coming off. When this occurs, you will need to schedule an appointment with your dentist to check and probably reapply them.

Benefits of Sealants

The benefits of dental sealants extend beyond preventing cavities. They can also:

• Save money and avoid the need for expensive fillings and other future dental treatments. 
• Improve oral health by preventing the build-up of harmful bacteria in the deep grooves of teeth. 
• Preserve your smile and keep your natural teeth longer.

If you’ve recently had sealants applied, continuing to care for them will allow you to enjoy these benefits for years to come. Thus, visiting a dentist for dental sealants in Lakeway is an investment in one’s long-term oral health. Sealants will protect both children and adults who have a higher risk of cavities. You can extend the life of your sealants and keep your smile cavity-free by adhering to the proper aftercare instructions. 

Schedule an appointment today if you have any concerns about dental sealants or other dental issues. 

FAQs

How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants can last between 5 to 10 years, but regular check-ups will ensure they remain intact and functional.

Are dental sealants visible?
No, dental sealants are clear or white and blend in with the natural color of your teeth, making them virtually invisible.

Can I still get cavities with sealants?
While sealants offer excellent protection, it’s still important to maintain good oral hygiene, as cavities can still form on the parts of your teeth not covered by sealants.

Do dental sealants hurt when applied?
The process of applying sealants is entirely pain-free. The material is simply painted onto the surface of your teeth and hardened with a dental curing light.