If your dentist has suggested dental sealants, you may be curious to know more about them and what exactly they entail. In the simplest terms possible, a dental sealant is a protective plastic coating. They are used over the chewing surface of your permanent back teeth, your molars and premolars, and the purpose of a dental sealant is to help protect these teeth from decay.

If you brush and floss regularly, you may instantly dismiss the need for a dental sealant, but before you do, let’s take a closer look at why your dentist may be recommending them. Dental sealants are typically suggested if your molars and premolars have “fissures” or grooves. These grooves can be smaller than the individual bristle of your toothbrush, but they are large enough to harbor bacteria. This makes them hard to clean and they lead your teeth to be more vulnerable to decay.

With a dental sealant, this grooved and pitted area is turned smooth as the sealants are placed over the area to provide an extra barrier of protection. Keep in mind, of course, that you still need to brush your teeth thoroughly as you would without dental sealants. Also, a dental sealant cannot be used on a place that has a cavity. Instead, you’ll need your tooth to be cleaned and filled.

Most dentists will suggest dental sealants if they are needed right when the molars and premolars begin erupting. Dental sealants may chip away with time, but they will generally last many years. If needed, they can be reapplied in the future, but most people will have them applied around 11 to 13 years of age when the chewing surface of their back permanent teeth begins erupting through the gums.

Do you have questions about dental sealants in Murrells Inlet? If so, contact our office today to learn more.