The Benefits of Dental Sealants

Brushing, flossing and improving dietary habits are all effective methods for preventing dental erosion and gum disease. Additionally, getting regular dental cleanings is a powerful adjunctive measure for minimizing harmful bacteria that cause unfavorable conditions in the mouth. A dental sealant, another protective tool that fights gum disease and cavities, is a thin coating of plastic that is painted on the surfaces of the teeth, specifically those surfaces that are in contact with food. Sealant offers a powerful barrier against the accumulation of food particles, thus reducing the risk for oral health issues.

What Are the Top Benefits of Dental Sealants?

Bacteria overgrowth is the result of accumulated food particles in and around the teeth and gums. Dental sealants reduce the adherence of food particles to the teeth, thereby decreasing tooth decay risk. There are many benefits to using dental sealants in conjunction with regular dental exams as well as brushing and flossing. Here are some of the main benefits of dental sealants:

• Prevent Tooth Decay and Cavities: When food accumulates in the mouth, it attracts bacteria and increases acidity. These are key contributors to dental decay and cavities. Dental sealants prevent food particles from gathering in the depressions and grooves of the teeth. While brushing is still recommended, dental sealants help reduce the incidence of bacterial growth even more than relying solely on standard preventative measures.
• Cost-Efficient: While there is an initial investment for any dental procedure, dental sealants can provide substantial cost savings in the long run. The price of treating cavities and gum disease is quite high, especially in their later stages. Dental sealants, as a prevention tool, can help fight these issues before they start. This can, in turn, reduce the incidence of paying for treatments that could have been prevented.
• Improved Overall Health: Current research indicates that dental issues are linked to other health conditions like diabetes and heart disease. While there is not exactly a cause-and-effect relationship between poor oral health and other chronic health conditions, there is evidence showing that prevention of oral health issues may reduce the likelihood of developing debilitating diseases. Therefore, dental sealants may provide an extra dose of disease prevention that complements an overall healthy diet and exercise program.
• Easy-to-Use and Long-Lasting: Unlike some dental devices, sealants can be applied quickly and easily and last for years. Dental sealants present very little discomfort (if any) and are typically durable enough for long-lasting wear.

Contact Northfield Dental Group

At Northfield Dental Group, our professional team of experienced dentists can help address any oral health issue you may have. Call us at (973) 736-0111 to learn more about the services we offer and to request an appointment.