Myths vs Facts: Common Misconceptions About Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that we paint onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They prevent food and bacteria from getting trapped in the deep grooves and pits of those back teeth and are an effective, painless, and affordable preventive treatment.
An Ounce of Prevention
Preventive dentistry is an important part of oral health. We encourage our patients to do as much as they can to prevent issues from becoming complicated or arising at all. Dental sealants are an excellent preventive tool that can protect your teeth and, in the long run, can save you discomfort, time, and money.
Dispelling Common Misconceptions
Myth 1: Dental sealants are only for kids.
Fact: It’s true that sealants are often recommended to children who may have trouble perfecting their oral hygiene routine. There is absolutely no reason the rest of the family can’t benefit as well. Everyone’s teeth are unique, and some people have deeper grooves on the chewing surfaces of their teeth than others. Sealants can help prevent food and bacteria from getting trapped.
Myth 2: Sealants are painful and require drilling.
Fact: We know patients are not enthusiastic about dental drills, so we want to emphasize that sealants DO NOT require drilling. The application process is completely non-invasive, quick, and painless. No numbing or drilling is required. Sealants are literally painted on.
Myth 3: Sealants trap bacteria and cause cavities underneath.
Fact: We prepare the teeth very carefully before applying sealants. If, on the off chance, a small amount of bacteria is trapped, it becomes inactive because it lacks access to nutrients.
Myth 4: Sealants replace the need to brush and floss.
Fact: Just because you have an emergency brake in your car doesn’t mean you should cut the main brake line. Sealants do not replace good oral hygiene habits. They are an extra tool to protect your smile.
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
The American Dental Association supports dental sealants as a cost-effective measure compared to restorative treatments. Saving money while preventing cavities and keeping your smile healthy is an excellent outcome by any measure.
With proper care, sealants can protect your teeth for many years. With regular checkups and cleanings, we can monitor your sealants and let you know when it is time to refresh.
Dental sealants are a safe, straightforward way to protect your teeth from decay and cavities. If you are interested in sealants for yourself or a loved one, then we encourage you to call or ask about them at your next checkup. Schedule a consultation at our office located in Cincinnati, OH, and we can get the conversation started.
