How to Care for Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a fantastic way to protect your teeth from cavities, especially for kids and teens, but adults can benefit too. While they’re highly effective, sealants still need proper care to last and do their job well. Swansea, IL dentist, Dr. Randall E. Wilson at Corner Stone Dental recommends following these tips to maintain the longevity of your sealants.
To learn more about taking care of your dental sealants, contact our Swansea dental office today by calling (618) 236-0501.
Foods and Habits to Avoid With Sealants
Sealants create a barrier over your teeth to keep food particles and bacteria from causing decay. However, they can wear down or get damaged if not properly cared for. Here are some foods and habits to avoid:
- Hard or crunchy foods: Avoid chewing ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candies as they can chip or break the sealants.
- Sticky and chewy treats: Gummy candies, caramel, and similar foods can stick to your sealants and eventually cause them to loosen or wear down.
- Teeth grinding (Bruxism): If you tend to grind your teeth at night, talk to your Swansea dentist about getting a nightguard to protect your sealants and teeth.
- Chewing on objects: Avoid chewing on things like pen caps or fingernails, as this habit can damage sealants over time.
By being mindful of these habits, you’ll help your sealants stay strong and effective for years to come.
Maintain Regular Dental Checkups
Sealants are durable, but they aren’t invincible. Regular dental checkups are essential to ensure that your sealants remain intact and continue to protect your teeth. During these visits, Dr. Wilson will:
- Check the condition of your sealants
- Clean your teeth thoroughly
- Apply fluoride treatments if necessary for extra protection
If a sealant has worn down or come off, your dentist can reapply it quickly to keep your teeth protected. Swansea, IL residents and those in the surrounding areas like Belleville, Shiloh, O’Fallon, and Edwardsville can rely on Corner Stone Dental for professional care and monitoring of their sealants.
Do Sealants Affect Your Oral Hygiene Routine?
Dental sealants don’t change how you care for your teeth. You can continue brushing and flossing as usual. In fact, it’s essential to maintain a solid oral hygiene routine, including:
- Brushing twice a day: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean your teeth.
- Flossing daily: Floss between your teeth to remove plaque buildup and food particles.
- Rinsing with mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in your mouth, providing an extra layer of protection.
Sealants cover only the chewing surfaces of your teeth, so keeping the rest of your teeth clean and healthy is still important.
The Importance of Fluoride and Dental Sealants
Fluoride treatments and dental sealants work together to offer optimal protection against cavities. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel, while sealants create a physical barrier on your teeth’s surface. Ask your Swansea dentist about fluoride treatments during your checkup to give your teeth even more defense against decay.
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Sealants can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years with proper care. While they aren’t permanent, they can be re-applied easily during a routine dental visit. Taking care of your sealants, avoiding harmful foods, and maintaining regular dental appointments will help them last longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sealants only last for around five years, so they must be replaced regularly. They can’t be used on teeth with existing decay or fillings. Poor placement can lead to bacteria build-up and cavities, so sealants must be done properly.
Dental sealants aren’t just for children, they can be beneficial for both adults and children depending on the individual’s dental needs.
Keep Your Sealants Strong With Proper Care
Caring for your dental sealants is simple, but it does require some attention. By avoiding harmful foods, maintaining regular dental checkups, and sticking to a good oral hygiene routine, you’ll help your sealants last and keep your teeth protected for years.
If you live in Swansea, Belleville, Shiloh, O’Fallon, and Edwardsville or the surrounding areas and need sealants or sealant care, Dr. Wilson and our team at Corner Stone Dental are here to help. Regular checkups, paired with excellent home care, are the keys to a healthy smile! If you notice any signs of wear or if they feel rough, schedule an appointment at Corner Stone Dental by calling (618) 236-0501.