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Are you surprised at the amount of sugar in some of your favorite foods?
Did you know that sugar plays a harmful role in tooth decay? Sugar when combined with bacterial plaque forms acids which weaken the enamel (the hard outside covering of your teeth). The acids dissolve the minerals that make your tooth enamel hard. When the surface of the enamel becomes porous—tiny holes appear. After a while, repeated acid attacks cause the tiny holes in the enamel to get bigger until one large hole appears. This is a cavity. So you can see why it is so important to visit your dentist for regular checkups so that the plaque you can't get with your toothbrush can be removed.
What is Plaque?
Your mouth is a busy place. Bacteria are constantly on the move on your teeth. Having bacteria in your mouth is a normal thing, however, certain types can attach themselves to the enamel that covers your teeth. These bacteria form together to create a sticky film, called plaque. When you don't clean your teeth after eating, plaque bacteria use sugar as a source of energy. The bacteria convert the sugar into harmful acids that attack tooth enamel. Repeated attacks may cause the enamel to break down, resulting in cavities.
How do sealants help prevent decay?
The first step in maintaining a healthy mouth is preventing tooth decay, and sealants can offer excellent protection against cavities. A sealant is a plastic material that is usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. This plastic resin bonds into the depressions and grooves (called pits and fissures) of the chewing surfaces of back teeth. The sealant then acts as a barrier, protecting these vulnerable areas by "sealing out" plaque and food.
Who would benefit the most from sealants?
Children are excellent candidates for sealants as decay usually begins early in life. And sealants are an available benefit for children through age 15 (a co-payment may apply). The key here is to stop acid from attacking the enamel and causing tooth decay. By having sealants applied to your childrens' teeth, you can help protect them against cavities. Visit your dentist today and ask if sealants can be part of your child's preventive program.
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