Dental sealants shield the permanent premolars and molars from acids and plaque being penetrated through the fissures and cavities of the teeth. Though flossing and brushing occasionally eliminate the bacteria and acids it cannot do it entirely. This is because there are some stubborn places and grooves that are so narrow that the bristles of the brush cannot even reach there to clean them. These are the places that are more prone to plaque and bacteria. Dental sealing seals these places and prevents bacteria from accumulating to those places. But are these safe? To know more read below. Here are some of the obvious pros and cons of dental coatings discussed, have a look at these.

PROS
Easy and painless
The foremost advantage of dental sealants is that it is a very easy process that only takes a few minutes. After the affected tooth is cleaned then it is as easy as it seems to be. For this, you don’t need to bear with the tantrums of your kids because it does not need to test your kid’s patience. Once you land in a good dental clinic, the procedure will be done in just a few minutes.

Gives obvious results
Dental sealants give obvious results and they are 100% effective in removing the cavities from the chewing surfaces of the permanent premolars and molars which the main teeth responsible for the grinding and chewing purposes. They can readily reduce up to 80% of the cavities in even a six-month-old baby, who have just started erupting teeth beyond their gums. While in a four-year-old toddler it can reduce 60% of the tooth cavities with immediate effect.

Long lasting effects
Dental sealants are durable and can stay effective for about 10 years with regular dental checkups. They can be replaced easily if any wear and tear are noticed by the dentists through dental X-rays.

CONS

Not applicable to everyone
Dental sealants are effective for reducing the cavities but it may not give the best results in tooth decay. It cannot be used in the teeth which have already started to decay and also for those who have already undergone the dental filling procedure before. It works effectively in reducing cavities by sealing the fissures and grooves on the teeth enamel.

Involves BPA
Sometimes the seals contain fragments of chemical BPA or bisphenol A though in an insignificant amount, can be linked to certain health conditions. These hardly makes any difference but those who are too concerned about the health of their kids stay away from this dental procedure and seek other alternative measures. Regular brushing, flossing and maintaining hygiene are the alternate measures that can reduce the chances of developing plaque and bacteria on the chewing surfaces or the occlusal surfaces of the teeth.

Thus, the cons are insignificant in contrast to the pros as to the application of the seals. Therefore, it is recommended by most of the dentists as effective procedures to cover up the dental fissures and cavities for preventing the accumulation of plaque and bacteria.