How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

What Are Dental Sealants?

The Application Process

• Cleaning the Teeth: The teeth are thoroughly cleaned and dried to ensure optimal adhesion of the sealant.


• Preparation: An acidic solution is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth to roughen them slightly. This helps the sealant bond more effectively.


• Application: The liquid sealant is carefully painted onto the teeth and hardened using a special curing light.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

• Oral Hygiene: Proper oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, can help prolong the lifespan of sealants.


• Dietary Habits: Avoiding hard or sticky foods can prevent premature wear and tear of sealants.


• Sealant Material: The type of sealant used and its quality can impact durability.

Maintaining Dental Sealants

Factors Affecting the Longevity of Dental Sealants

• Oral Hygiene Practices: Consistent and thorough oral hygiene routines significantly impact the durability of dental sealants. Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with fluoride mouthwash help prevent plaque buildup and maintain the integrity of the sealants.


• Dietary Habits: Your dietary choices can affect the longevity of dental sealants. Avoiding sugary and sticky foods reduces the risk of cavities and prolongs the lifespan of sealants by minimizing wear and tear.


• Sealant Material and Application Technique: The quality of the sealant material and the precision of the application technique influence its durability. High-quality sealants applied by dental professionals tend to last longer and provide better protection against decay.


• Individual Oral Anatomy: The unique structure and anatomy of your teeth play a role in how long dental sealants last. Factors such as deep grooves and fissures may require thicker or more extensive sealant applications for optimal coverage and longevity.

Average Lifespan of Dental Sealants

Maintaining Dental Sealants

• Brush and Floss Regularly: Clean your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day to remove plaque and food debris.


• Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods: Minimize consumption of foods that can stick to or damage the sealants, such as caramels or hard candies.


• Attend Routine Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular visits to your Grand Prairie dentist for professional cleanings and examinations to ensure the sealants are intact and functioning correctly.