All About Dental Sealants: A Quiz

Have you ever wondered why there isn’t some way to thoroughly protect teeth from dental plaque? Certainly, if you could keep plaque from coming into contact with teeth, the incidence of tooth decay would drop considerably. Right? While we cannot completely seal each of your teeth, we do offer sealants. Not sure what to expect from dental sealants but you like where this is going? Take the following quiz to learn more about this primarily pediatric treatment that can offer exceptional protection against cavity formation.

Dental Sealants Quiz: True or False

  1. True or False: Dental sealants are only for children.
  2. True or False: Sealants are hard coverings like crowns that we place over back teeth.
  3. True or False: Sealants often last for five to 10 years.
  4. True or False: Sealants create a physical barrier over chewing surfaces.

Dental Quiz Answer Key

  1. False. For the most part, this is a preventive treatment we provide for our youngest patients – this is because children often have a very difficult time reaching and effectively cleaning back teeth. However, we may make exceptions if it turns out sealants may offer you the adult protection against plaque that you need.
  2. False. A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that we will paint over the chewing surfaces of back teeth. In most cases, the only people who will be capable of recognizing the presence of sealants are dental professionals. This means that you or your child can enjoy the benefits of treatment without worrying that it disrupts the beauty of your smile.
  3. True. Sealants will typically remain intact and in place for up to 10 years, which means you can enjoy long-term protection against cavities on hard-to-reach molars.
  4. True. The sealant will provide a barrier between your tooth and both plaque and food particles. This offers wonderful protection because back teeth are full of small places for plaque to hide, such as fissures and grooves. When plaque cannot hide, you daily home hygiene typically become much more effective.

ABOUT YOUR ANKENY DENTIST:

Since 2006, Dr. Amanda Foust has proudly treated families in Ankeny, Alleman, Elkhart, Bondurant, and all surrounding communities. To learn more, schedule an appointment with your Ankeny, IA dentist today. You can reach Dental Impressions by calling (515) 965-0230.