SEALANTS: AN EFFECTIVE WAY TO PREVENT TOOTH DECAY

Dental sealants are an effective preventive treatment for tooth decay and cavities in children. They are thin, protective coatings applied to the grooves of a child’s back teeth (molars) to help prevent the buildup of bacteria and food particles.

Sealants are made from a combination of materials, including:

  • Fillers
  • Composite resins
  • Tooth-colored plastics
  • Other dental-grade chemicals

Among these, sealants made from composite resins are the most popular due to their durability, effectiveness, and natural tooth-colored appearance. Composite resin sealants can protect teeth from cavities for extended periods and typically offer better retention than those made from other materials.

A cavity is a hole that forms in the surface of a tooth. Cavities develop when sugars in the food we eat combine with bacteria in the mouth, producing acid that gradually erodes the enamel—the tooth’s protective outer layer.

To help prevent cavities, a dentist or dental hygienist can apply a hard coat of resin (a sealant) to the chewing surfaces of your child’s molars. This coating fills the pits and grooves where cavities commonly begin and acts as a barrier against acid and bacteria that lead to tooth decay.

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TYPES OF SEALANTS

Sealants are classified into several types based on their polymerization method, filler content, and the materials used in their composition.

The most common types of dental sealants include:

1. GLASS IONOMER SEALANTS

Glass ionomer sealants are hydrophilic, bond chemically to tooth surfaces, and offer strong protection against bacterial accumulation. They have properties such as low thermal expansion, greater susceptibility to desiccation, and reduced shrinkage during placement compared to other types of sealants. Additionally, they tend to be stiffer than other sealant materials.

2. COMPOSITE RESIN SEALANTS

Composite resin sealants effectively prevent bacterial accumulation in the pits and fissures of children’s and adolescents’ posterior teeth. Composite resin is a widely used and preferred material for sealants because it maintains dental aesthetics.

These resins are fabricated to match the shape, size, and color of the patient’s natural teeth, contributing to a natural-looking smile. Their key properties include low susceptibility to desiccation, high tensile strength, and the absence of acid-base bonding.

However, composite resin sealants tend to shrink slightly more during placement compared to other types. Despite this, they are considered more durable in preventing dental caries and offer long-lasting protection.

3. POLY-ACID MODIFIED SEALANTS

Poly-acid modified sealants, also known as copolymers, are made from resin materials that release fluoride, offer protection against tooth decay, and have adhesive properties.

Studies show that sealants can prevent cavities by up to 80% in the first two years and by 50% after four years. They work by covering the chewing surfaces of molars with a protective barrier that blocks food particles and bacteria.

4 SIGNS YOU MIGHT NEED TO HAVE DENTAL SEALANTS

  • Increased risk of cavities. The most common reason why people choose dental sealants is to significantly reduce the risk of developing a cavity.
  • Plaque and tartar buildup.
  • Teeth discolouration.
  • Presence of cavities in the molars or premolars.

ESTIMATED COSTS OF DENTAL SEALANTS

The cost of dental sealants can vary depending on the type of sealant used and your location. On average, sealants typically range from $30 to $40 per tooth. They are one of the quickest, most effective, and most affordable preventive dental treatments, offering long-lasting protection against tooth decay.

Sealants are also faster and easier to apply than other restorative procedures such as fillings or crowns. By forming a protective barrier over the chewing surfaces of the molars, sealants significantly reduce the risk of cavities and help maintain overall oral health.

If you’re located in Toronto, you’ll find many clinics that offer dental sealant treatments. However, Ingersoll Dental stands out as a top choice. We are committed to providing high-quality dental care at affordable prices, with your comfort and satisfaction as our highest priority. Whether you’re dealing with early signs of decay or simply looking to prevent future issues, our experienced team will help you achieve a healthier, brighter, and more confident smile.

FAQs:

The placement of sealants is not a painful process at all. During the procedure, the dentist typically cleans the teeth and applies a special gel to the chewing surfaces for a few seconds. Afterward, the gel is rinsed off and the teeth are dried. Then, the sealant is carefully painted onto the affected teeth. A UV light is used to harden the sealant, forming a protective shield. This barrier helps prevent cavities from forming in the pits and grooves of the tooth surfaces.

Sealants are only applied to the posterior teeth, primarily the molars and premolars. That’s why they are not visible when a child or adult smiles. Additionally, sealants form a very thin coating that fills the grooves and pits of the back teeth. Most people do not notice any difference in the functionality of their teeth after sealant application. However, during the procedure, some individuals may experience slight discomfort or pressure, but these sensations typically subside on their own within a few days.

Sealants do not cause any significant changes to the form or function of the teeth. Although a person may feel slight pressure on the back teeth initially, this sensation typically fades within a few days after sealant application. Once the sealants conform to the shape of the teeth, they feel just like natural teeth—allowing a person to chew, speak, and smile without any discomfort or difficulty.

Sealants, once applied, help protect the teeth from cavities for an extended period. With good oral hygiene, they can last up to nine years. However, sealants can sometimes fall off. If this happens, it’s important to see a dentist promptly to have them replaced. Replacing sealants is a quick and simple procedure that takes very little time.