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A sealant is a white transparent plastic substance that is placed
upon the grooved and pitted surfaces of molars and back teeth, where
decay occurs most frequently. Sealants are a protective barrier
that resist penetration of harmful bacteria and acids that attack
dental enamel and create cavities.
Before a dentist "seals" a tooth, its surface is cleaned
of surface debris and conditioned so that the sealant material will
adhere to the tooth. The liquid sealant is then applied to the tooth
surface and hardened with a special light. Sealants are checked
at each regular dental check up for wear and retention. Bacteria
cannot penetrate the tooth surface so that it cannot multiply in
large numbers to cause excessive harm. Children and adults will
receive several years of protection from cavities.
The American Dental Association promotes the use of sealants as
one of the most effective ways of preventing tooth decay. Not only
will they prevent decay from penetrating its hard shell of protection,
but they will inhibit the progression of tooth decay when applied
to an already infected tooth. Researchers discovered that bacteria
count of infected teeth decreased significantly after sealants were
applied.
"Sealants cost about half of what a filling costs," according
to Dr. Heber Simmons, pediatric dental spokesperson for the ADA.
"When you think about avoiding the expense and damage done
to teeth by tooth decay, it really makes dental sealants worth investigating."
Dental sealants play an effective role in preventing tooth decay,
especially when combined with brushing after meals, flossing and
receiving regular check ups. Ask your dentist about the value of
sealants for your children's teeth.
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