What Are Dental Sealants And Are They Right For Me?

Dental Sealing is a preventive treatment method used by dentists to prevent cavities and tooth decay. The procedure is pain free and fills in the grooves of chosen teeth with a plastic coating to prevent food settling into the grooves and rotting, causing decay. (Most grooves are so deep that the toothbrush bristles cannot effectively clean the areas in question.) Dental seals generally last 3-5 years, but can last as long as 25-20 years, and depending on your dentist can cost anywhere from $35.00 to $60.00. (Cavity fillings cost around $200.)

At What Age Can You Get Sealants?
Sealants are generally placed in children, but you can get them at any age after the tooth in question is fully erupted. (That means once the tooth in question has grown into the mouth completely through the gum and the surface which will be filled in with the plastic can be kept dry enough to place the plastic sealant.) Dentists most often place sealants on permanent teeth instead of baby teeth, but if their professional opinion is to strongly suggest sealant on baby teeth, that is to suit your (or your child's) needs.

Are Dental Sealants Necessary?
Only your dentist can tell you if selants are the best choice for you. The factors involve the level of dental hygeine, the foods eaten, fluoride intake, and the shape of your teeth. For example, some can have excellent hygeine and a low sugar diet, but due to deep grooves in their teeth can still experience decay. Keep in mind that the most common tendency for children as they go through their pubescent years is to have worse dental hygeine and eating habits. Dental sealants are meant to prevent decay during these important years, and for people who have deep, narrow grooves in their teeth. Dental sealants are generally not necessary for EVERY tooth in the mouth, but usually for the molars, or "back teeth" with the most pronounced grooves.


Reserve Dental Group is your Boca Raton Dentist for general and cosmetic dentistry located in Boca Raton, Florida, for more information visit us online at www.reservedentalgroup.com or call our office to set an appointment 561-852-7773.