5 Tips for Dental Sealant Aftercare

Dental sealants are a fantastic preventative measure to protect your teeth from cavities and decay, especially for children and teenagers. However, to ensure they last and provide the maximum benefit, proper aftercare is essential. 

In this blog, we'll explore five key tips for maintaining your dental sealants so they can continue to safeguard your smile for years to come. Whether you're a parent looking after your child's dental health or an adult with sealants, these tips will help you enjoy a cavity-free future.

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Even with dental sealants, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of your teeth, but plaque and bacteria can still accumulate along the gum line and between teeth. To keep your mouth healthy:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between teeth.
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and freshen your breath.

2. Cut Back On Hard and Sticky Foods

While dental sealants are durable, they can still be damaged by certain foods. To prolong the life of your sealants:

• Avoid chewing on hard candies, ice, and popcorn kernels, which can chip or crack the sealants.
• Steer clear of sticky foods like caramel and taffy that can pull at the sealants and weaken their bond.

3. Eat A “Tooth-Healthy” Diet

Sealants help prevent cavities in treated teeth, but they're not usually applied to all of your teeth. This means that, along with good oral hygiene, you should eat a diet that reduces your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. To eat a “tooth-healthy” diet, you should:

• Eat plenty of lean meats, whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
• Avoid starchy, sugary snacks and overly-processed foods.
• Drink plenty of water and cut back on sugary and acidic beverages like soda, tea, coffee, sports drinks, energy drinks, and juice.

4. Get Regular Dental Checkups

Regular dental checkups are essential to monitor the condition of your sealants and overall oral health. During these visits, your dentist can:

• Examine the sealants for any signs of wear or damage.
• Reapply or repair the sealants if necessary to maintain their protective benefits.
• Provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup.

5. Be Mindful of Changes to Your Sealants

Pay attention to any changes in your teeth or sealants. If you notice any of the following, contact your dentist:

• Sealants that feel rough or uneven.
• Any sensitivity or discomfort in the sealed teeth.
• Visible cracks or missing pieces in the sealants.

Schedule Your Appointment in Boulder, CO

Taking care of your dental sealants is a key step in maintaining a healthy smile. At Folsom Family Dental, Dr. Colleen Kimball Bullard and her team are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal oral health. If you have questions about your sealants or need to schedule a checkup, don't hesitate to reach out. Call us today at (337) 258-6841 to book your appointment in Boulder, CO, and keep your smile shining bright!