Dental sealants protect both developing and mature teeth from decay. These thin plastic coatings protect molars, premolars, and any deep grooves in your smile where harmful bacteria tend to thrive. But as with any foreign substance that enters your body, some patients may be concerned that sealants are not an ideal solution. The following breaks down the safe nature of sealants and how exactly they benefit patients.
Sealants Contain BPA: A Cause for Concern?
Some patients take issue with the fact that sealants contain BPA, an industrial chemical commonly found in plastics. But according to the ADA, the amount of BPA found in dental sealants should not be a cause for concern. Children are regularly exposed to higher, but still safe, amounts of BPA from food, drinks, and the air we breathe on a daily basis, and the addition of sealants to their teeth does not increase this exposure to unsafe levels. With this in mind, the decision to introduce sealants into your child’s or your own preventive treatment plan should not be a difficult one.
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
Even if you practice a consistent and effective oral hygiene routine, the pits and fissures of your molars and premolars can be difficult to clean thoroughly. Dental sealants cover these crevices and prevent the entry of plaque and food particles. They are especially useful for young patients with erupting teeth and those currently experiencing decay.
By sticking with a thorough cleaning routine, rinsing after meals and sugary drinks, and keeping your biannual dental appointments, you can prevent decay and preserve your long-term oral and overall health. Sealants, along with the intake of fluoride, can further secure your teeth. Best of all, sealants tend to last up to a decade and are easy to replace, meaning you will have plenty of time to enjoy a healthy smile.
Dental Sealants in Cumming, GA
At Cumming Dental Care, Dr. J. Clay Skognes and his highly-trained staff offer dental sealants for patients looking to protect their smile from decay. This valuable preventive treatment is can benefit patients of all ages, from children with developing smiles to adults with uniquely shaped teeth. Call our office today to schedule your appointment, and see if sealants are right for you!