How long do dental sealants last?

Did you know that even if you brush and floss regularly, you can still get cavities? Luckily, dental treatments such as sealants provide a noninvasive and effective solution to preventing cavities.

While some sealants can last up to 10 years, it is best to replace them around 5 years for the greatest results. The longer the sealants are on your teeth, the less effective they will be at preventing cavities as they are the most effective in the first two years after application.

It is a good idea to avoid eating hard or crunchy foods because those foods can wear down the sealants faster. Sealants should be checked regularly at dental check-ups to ensure they have not fallen off, worn away, or chipped. However, the good news is that sealants are easy and quick to replace.

What is the purpose of sealants?

Teeth often have narrow grooves and pits that are hard to reach with a toothbrush, making them prone to cavities. Dentists can apply a coating to these teeth that seals the grooves and pits to help avoid cavities by keeping out food and bacteria. Sealants are most likely to be applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth because of their textured exterior. 

Why get sealants?

Sealants are a form of preventative dental care that can save time and money in the long run by preventing fillings, caps, and crowns. Getting sealants is a painless procedure where the tooth is dried and cleaned, then the sealant is applied as a liquid before it hardens. Because they are made from composite resin, they can be blended to your tooth’s color and will not be immediately visible. 

Who should get sealants?

Dental sealants are most often used on:

• Children

• Patients with special needs

• Patients with physical impairments

However, this treatment may benefit anyone without dental fillings or decay in their molars. 

If you feel that sealants might fit your or your child’s needs, schedule an appointment at Ridge View Dental today!