A dental sealant is a thin, protective coating that is applied to the chewing surface of a tooth to prevent cavities and dental decay This coating acts as a barrier and helps prevent food particles, bacteria and other debris from entering the microscopic spaces and cracks in a tooth and causing decay. The dental sealant is composed of a liquid material that is painted onto the teeth and then hardens into a solid plastic coating.
Dental sealants are a safe and effective way to help protect teeth from cavities and decay. Sealants can last up to 10 years and may require periodic reapplication by a dental professional. It is recommended that sealants are placed on children’s permanent molars as soon as they come in, which is typically around age 6 or 7.
The following are five of the best examples of dental sealants:
1. Clinpro™ Sealant: Clinpro™ Sealant is a fluoride-releasing sealant that offers additional protection from cavities and decay. Clinpro™ Sealant is a light-curing, glass ionomer sealant composed of stabilizers, adhesives and resins. This sealant allows for high-speed application and is designed to provide long-term protection.
2. Biodentine™: Biodentine™ is a bioactive, dentin-replacement material designed to restore and conserve tooth structure. It is composed of calcium silicate based hydrophilic resin that releases fluoride, providing additional protection from decay. Biodentine™ is self-adhesive and forms a strong bonding to the tooth structure.
3. Fluoride Varnish: Fluoride varnish is a fluoride-containing sealant that is applied to the surfaces of the teeth with a brush. This sealant works by forming a physical barrier to prevent bacteria from entering the microscopic spaces and cracks in a tooth and causing decay. Fluoride varnish helps to remineralize areas of weakened enamel and protect against further degradation or decay.
4. Gold-Bond XP: Gold-Bond XP is a light-curing, glass ionomer sealant composed of calcium, fluoride, and phosphorous. This sealant helps to strengthen and repair weakened enamel, as well as provide long-term protection from acid and bacterial attack. Gold-Bond XP is also known to release fluoride, which helps to reduce the incidence of dental caries.
5. Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer Cement: Resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RM-GIC) is a light-curing restorative material that is formulated for the restoration of moderate to highly carious lesions. This sealant is composed of polyacid-modified glass ionomer, fluoride and resin, and provides superior adhesion to dentin and enamel. RM-GIC also offers superior abrasion resistance, while also releasing therapeutic concentrations of fluoride.