Oral hygiene is important to everyone, especially to children and teenagers. One way to help keep teeth cavity-free is with dental sealants in Clearwater. Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth to protect them from food and bacteria. However, many people wonder, How long do they last? Here is everything you need to know.
What are Dental Sealants, and What do they do?
Dental sealants are a safe, painless procedure for preventing tooth decay. They work by sealing the grooves and pits of your molars that your toothbrush cannot reach. This creates a barrier to the bacteria and food particles that can lead to tooth decay.
Key points:
- Sealants are typically made of a plastic resin material.
- They are applied by a dentist in Clearwater quickly and without drilling.
- The process is comfortable and takes only a few minutes per tooth.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Several factors will determine the durability of dental sealants. Most dental sealants last from 3 years to 10 years, and some can last even longer with proper care.
Longevity is determined by a few traits:
- One of them is oral hygiene. Dental care, including brushing and flossing regularly, can delay the time when one will have to replace the sealants.
- Food habits. Overdoing it on hard chewing or grinding/clenching of teeth can drastically shorten the lifespan of the sealant materials.
- Sealant material. Various resins may last different lengths of time due to the underlying material.
- Regular visits. The local dentist will routinely check the sealants and schedule replacement if needed.
It is common for dentists to suggest a check of your sealants at each dental visit to ensure that they have remained intact and that they are still adequately providing protection.
Can Dental Sealants Protect Against Cavities Forever?
Though sealants for cavity prevention are great for preventing cavities, they are not permanent. They will prevent cavity risks, but they do not replace your daily care.
How to keep your sealants accomplishing what they are intended for:
- Brush your teeth 2 times each day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss every day to get plaque between teeth.
- Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or using teeth as tools.
- Use your dentist as a guideline on whether the sealants will need to be replaced.
Are There Signs That a Sealant Needs Replacement?
Occasionally, sealants will wear down, chip, or peel. Here are the signs:
| Sign | What It Means |
| Rough edges or missing areas | Sealant may have chipped |
| Food getting stuck | Sealant might have worn down |
| New cavities forming | Sealant may no longer be protecting the tooth |
If you notice any of these, schedule an appointment with a dentist to repair or replace the sealant.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are not just for kids—they can help anyone at risk of cavities. Determining the major beneficiaries of a preventive treatment can assist you in evaluating whether it is the right treatment for you.
- The occlusal grooves of permanent molars are the leading cause of tooth decay in young children and teenagers, hence the need for a preventive treatment.
- Adults without decay: Even adults can have sealants on healthy, non-decayed teeth to avoid decay in the future.
- People with previous cavities: Sealants provide additional protection to teeth that are already prone to cavities.
- Individuals with difficulty brushing back teeth: Sealants help block areas that are hard to reach.
Your dentist near you can evaluate your teeth and let you know if dental sealants are a good fit for your oral health needs.
How Often Should Sealants Be Checked?
Dentists typically suggest having sealants checked every 6 months during dental check-ups. Sealants can last a few years, but as you and your dental professional check your teeth, it provides an opportunity to ensure your teeth are still sealed and protected.
Protect Your Smile with Jeffrey Ellenberg, DMD, PA
There are easy preventive ways to maintain your teeth, such as sealing your teeth! At Jeffrey Ellenberg DMD PA, we help you protect your teeth from cavities while making your visit simple and comfortable.
Don’t wait until a cavity happens; come protect your smile! Schedule your restorative appointment with dentist in Clearwater for peace of mind, knowing that this way you are providing long-lasting protection. Your smile deserves a strong bond. Let us help you!
