Similar to a topcoat protects a manicure, dental sealants shield a child’s smile. Dentists recommend applying sealant as soon as a child’s permanent (adult) posterior molar teeth come in. The sealant covers them in a thin plastic layer to protect them from plaque. When we do our daily at-home dental routines, we only clean the surfaces of our teeth that a toothbrush or floss can reach. Sealants provide extra protection by filling in the nooks and crannies of our teeth so decay can’t invade.
Every person is different, but sealants can last for several years before chipping. Luckily chipped sealants aren’t the end of your child’s good oral health, it’s just part of the process.
Here are two common instances where a sealant can chip:
- Immediately after application: small sections of surplus sealant may come out of the mouth during the few days following application. This is normal! Here are some tips on what not to eat immediately after sealant application.
- Naturally over time: Considering the exorbitant amounts of pressure back teeth exert during daily eating and chewing, you might be surprised to know sealants will still last 5-10 years while slowly breaking down!
Because sealants are applied to chewing teeth, bite patterns and teeth grinding play a part in how long they last. Though sealants don’t require a specific diet, consumption of sticky and/or crunchy foods may shorten their longevity. Just like with enamel, acidic foods and drinks, such as pasta sauce and soda, can also cause coatings to break down faster.
Remember, this breakdown is natural and normal. And your child’s dental team will examine sealants during regular checkups. Don’t worry if portions have fallen out of place—the dentist and hygienist can reapply sealants to the missing areas.
Looking for a dentist near you? Click here. For tips on teaching oral health care at home, read this blog.
*Updated February 2022
