Why Dental Sealants Should Get Your Seal of Approval

Protect your family from the discomfort and cost of cavities with the help of dental sealants. Learn how these strong sealants are designed for decay defense. What to Know About Sealants A dental sealant is applied to the rough chewing surfaces of the molars, which is where cavities tend to develop. These molars have grooves and crevices that can hide food particles and plaque, which can lead to cavities. The thin sealant’s plastic coating heads off this problem and provides protection from cavities. Sealants are generally applied before cavities appear, but they can also be used on teeth with early signs of decay. Yet once that decay has advanced and broken through the tooth enamel, a filling is needed instead. Fighting Cavities with Sealants Dental sealants were once only used on children, but they are now also common for adults at high risk for cavities. In children, sealants can be applied to both their baby molars and permanent molars. When the baby molars fall out, family dentistry experts advise that sealants be placed on the permanent molars as soon as they appear to provide complete protection. If your child is at high risk for cavities, the dentist may decide to seal their other teeth, too. While some studies have raised concerns about the possible harmful effects of a chemical in some sealants called bisphenol A (BPA), current evidence has led the American Dental Association (ADA) to refute any basis for health concerns from BPA exposure to dental care materials. The ADA is a professional association of dentists committed to the public’s oral health and continued research into the safety of dental care materials and practices. The ADA fully supports future research into the safety of BPA, yet currently agrees with government agencies that the low level of potential BPA exposure from sealants poses no known health threats and that dental sealants are safe. Maintaining Dental Sealants Sealants are extremely durable and can stay effective for more than 10 years. But they can also chip, break, and fall out with wear and time. Your dentist will check the condition of your sealants during your regular dental check-ups to see if they’re still effective or need to be replaced. While keeping your sealants in good condition will help keep your teeth in good condition, it’s still important to practice good dental care, including brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and visiting a family dentistry specialist for regular check-ups and cleanings. To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Bradenton, call today at or make an appointment. Manatee Dental offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Bradenton. With 2 affiliated practices in the Bradenton area, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At , we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at .