Dental sealants provide an extra line of defense against tooth decay. Sealants are most commonly applied to children’s teeth as a preventative measure between the ages of 6 and 14, when the teeth are most susceptible to tooth decay. Though not as common, dental sealants are sometimes used on adult patients, depending on the situation.

A plastic resin applied to the deep grooves in the tooth chewing surface, dental sealants create a protective, smooth surface that is easier to brush and better able to resist plaque build-up.

Dental Sealants are Safe

A widely covered 2012 study raised concerns that trace amounts of the chemical bisphenol-A (BPA) were found in some dental resins, and that these could be linked to behavioral problems in children. The authors of the study noted that while they had found an association, they had not actually proven that BPA in dental sealants were the cause of any problems. Furthermore, BPA is far more prevalent in food and beverage packaging materials than it is in dental resins. Since the publication of the 2012 study, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association have since reaffirmed their support for the use of sealants. However, to help relieve any concerns, at Weninger Dentistry, we use BPA-free sealants and composites.

The application of dental sealants is an easy procedure. The teeth are thoroughly cleaned and dried to allow the sealant to bond properly to the tooth. Once the tooth has been prepared, the sealant is painted on. While sealants generally last from 3 to 5 years, in some cases with proper care, dental sealants can last over 10 years.

To learn more or discuss dental sealants as a preventive dental care option, contact Weninger Dentistry today.