Dental Assistants play a huge role in the day-to-day operations of a dental practice along with the continued oral healthcare of their patients. At Star of Texas Dental Assisting School, we pride ourselves on the top-notch education that we provide our dental assistant students. Our students truly learn the ins and outs of dental assisting and get to explore multiple departments to see what they are passionate about.
Let’s take a look at dental sealants. What are they, how are they applied and do they have side effects?
A dental sealant is the plastic coating put over the chewing areas of molars to help prevent tooth decay.
Children and teens are the biggest candidates for sealants, as they hold the biggest risk for tooth decay in these areas where sealants are used. The sealant acts as a barrier after it’s applied to the grooves and fissures of the molars. It then protects those small creases from food, acids and plaque that cause issues leading to cavities.
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) have reiterated their approval of sealants as recently as November of 2012. Since it was first approved by the CDA and the American Dental Association, they have been widely used to help prevent tooth decay.
Sealants haven’t shown many side effects associated with it. Right after the sealant is applied, the child might notice a bitter taste. They may also experience some mild pain from the etching of the teeth.
Some children might even have an allergic reaction to the materials used to create the sealant, but this isn’t typical and very unlikely.
Side effects aren’t really a concern for dental sealants. More than anything, sealants have been proven to be an extremely useful tool in oral health. It prevents serious problems that could cause severe health issues if not cared for in time.
How Sealants are Applied
Before the sealant is applied, the surface area must be prepared so that the adhesive will create a stronger bond. This is done by scratching the surface of the molars to make creases and a coarseness that the sealant will easily bond to.
Finally the sealant is put on the molar over the etching. Dentists may recommend having the sealants replaced over time and regular visits to check the sealants should be made.
How to Care for Sealants
Sealants prevent tooth decay for long lengths of time, averaging around 15 years. As long as the bond is solid and the sealant was adhered right, then the longevity of the sealant should persist.
There are ways to help prevent the breakdown of the sealant as well. By maintaining care for them, you could help the durability of the sealant.
To take extra precaution, sticky and hard foods should be avoided. After the sealant is applied is when it is the most sensitive to damage. Normal every day tooth care such as flossing and brushing is also necessary.
By taking the proper precautions, you can avoid any harm to the sealant and it will help keep your teeth protected from decay!
Please contact Star of Texas Dental Assisting School if you have any questions about dental sealants or if you are interested in enrolling to become a Dental Assistant! (512) 487-1547
