TOOTH SEALANTS Meaning and
Definition
-
Tooth sealants, also known as dental sealants, are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars) with the purpose of preventing tooth decay. These sealants are most commonly used in children, who are particularly susceptible to cavities due to the deep grooves and crevices on their newly erupted permanent teeth. However, they can also be beneficial for adults at higher risk of developing dental caries.
The procedure of applying tooth sealants is quick and painless. The dentist or dental hygienist first thoroughly cleans and dries the tooth surface. Then, an acidic gel is applied to the tooth to roughen and etch the surface, creating a better bond for the sealant material. After rinsing and drying the tooth again, the sealant is carefully painted onto the enamel, where it bonds and hardens with the assistance of a special curing light.
Once in place, the tooth sealant acts as a physical barrier, sealing off the deep grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This effectively prevents food particles and bacteria from getting trapped in these hard-to-clean areas and consequently reduces the risk of decay. Additionally, tooth sealants make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene, as they provide a smoother surface that can be easily brushed and cleaned.
Tooth sealants are a preventive measure in maintaining oral health, working alongside regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. They are a non-invasive, cost-effective, and efficient strategy to protect teeth from cavities and maintain optimal dental hygiene.
Common Misspellings for TOOTH SEALANTS
- rooth sealants
- footh sealants
- gooth sealants
- yooth sealants
- 6ooth sealants
- 5ooth sealants
- tioth sealants
- tkoth sealants
- tloth sealants
- tpoth sealants
- t0oth sealants
- t9oth sealants
- toith sealants
- tokth sealants
- tolth sealants
- topth sealants
- to0th sealants
- to9th sealants
- toorh sealants
- toofh sealants
Etymology of TOOTH SEALANTS
The word "tooth sealants" is a compound noun made up of two components: "tooth" and "sealants".
1. Tooth: The word "tooth" originated from the Old English word "tōth". It can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word "tanth", and ultimately to the Proto-Indo-European root "dent", meaning "tooth". The term "tooth" refers to the hard structure embedded in the jawbone that humans and many animals use for biting and chewing.
2. Sealants: The term "sealants" is derived from the verb "seal", which came from the Old French word "seeler", meaning "to seal" or "to lock". The verb "seal" was adapted from the Latin word "sigillum", meaning "seal" or "stamp".
