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Can You Eat Regular Foods Following Getting Sealants?

Posted on 2/3/2025 by Janice K. Pliszczak, DDS

A dentist using a curing light to apply a dental sealant on a male patient's teeth during a dental procedure in a clinic.

Do you have deep grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth? If so, you may benefit from dental sealants. These thin, plastic coatings are placed on the back teeth to prevent cavities. But can you eat regular foods after getting sealants? The answer is yes, with a few precautions.

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a safe and effective way to protect your teeth from cavities. They are made of a thin, plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Once the sealant hardens, it forms a protective barrier that keeps food particles and bacteria from entering the deep grooves and pits of the teeth. This helps to prevent cavities from forming in these hard-to-reach areas.

Eating After Getting Sealants

Immediately after getting sealants, you will need to avoid eating hard or sticky foods. This is because the sealant needs time to fully harden and bond to the tooth. Your dentist will advise you on how long to avoid these foods, but it is usually for a few hours.

Once the sealant has hardened, you can eat regular foods. However, it is still important to practice good oral care habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily. This will help to keep your teeth and sealants clean and healthy.

Foods to Avoid After Getting Sealants

Here are some specific foods to avoid immediately after getting sealants:

•	Hard foods: Nuts, seeds, hard candy, and popcorn
•	Sticky foods: Gummy candies, taffy, and chewing gum
•	Acidic foods: Citrus fruits, juices, and sodas

When to See Your Dentist

If you experience any problems with your sealants, such as chipping or cracking, be sure to see your dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to repair or replace the sealant to ensure that your teeth are protected.

Benefits of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants offer a number of benefits, including:

•	Prevention of cavities: Sealants are highly effective at preventing cavities in the back teeth.
•	Protection of tooth enamel: Sealants help to protect the tooth enamel from the harmful effects of plaque and acid.
•	Cost-effective: Sealants are a relatively inexpensive way to protect your teeth from cavities.
•	Durability: Sealants can last for many years with proper care.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a way to protect your teeth from cavities, dental sealants are an excellent option. They are safe, effective, and affordable. With proper care, sealants can help to keep your teeth healthy for years to come.

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"You are put at ease the minute you walk into their new office on Broad Rd. Beautiful and calming surroundings. The staff couldn't be more helpful and are extremely friendly. Dr. Pliszczak is exactly what you want in a Dentist. Always concerned with your comfort, I never feel rushed, and I enjoy here friendly manner. And because of all of their meticulously thorough work, My teeth are as healthy as can be!!! Thank you Dr. Pliszczak, Jade and Nancy" ~Roamy F.