When it comes to maintaining a healthy smile, regular oral hygiene is crucial. But even if you’re diligent about brushing and flossing, your teeth are still susceptible to decay—especially your molars, as their grooves and crevices can easily trap food particles, debris, and bacteria that will destroy your enamel! But fortunately, dental sealants are an excellent solution for covering these teeth and helping to prevent cavities. That said, some patients falsely believe that these sealants are only suitable for children! Keep reading to learn more from your dentist about dental sealants and some of the ways they can help adults.
What Exactly Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin coatings of plastic placed along the chewing surfaces of teeth. Their primary function is to protect the vulnerable grooves and curves of your teeth from bacteria that causes tooth decay. They’re typically placed on the premolars and molars since those teeth are usually the most susceptible to food particles and debris. The sealants are bonded into these depressions, where they act as a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth.
How Can Dental Sealants Help Adults?
Sealants can last up to 10 years with proper care, making them an excellent preventive care option. But even though most patients associate the treatment with children, dental sealants actually offer many benefits for your mouth, regardless of how old you are! Here are four notable benefits for adults:
- They reduce the risk of tooth decay – Since they’re designed to last for a while, dental sealants offer years of added protection against tooth decay. This form of preventive maintenance can also help to save you money down the road.
- They help prevent cavities – Early signs of tooth decay can easily progress into a cavity, but a sealant can be applied to prevent this. Since sealants are also typically clear, your dentist will also be able to monitor the tooth and ensure the sealant isn’t compromised in any way.
- They combat aging – As you age, your enamel gradually wears and thins which increases the risk of an oral health problem occurring. Sealants directly combat this by enhancing and protecting your teeth.
- They enhance the appearance of your smile – Since sealants also make your cleaning routine a little easier, brushing your teeth and keeping your smile beautiful both become much easier. If there’s less bacteria present in your mouth, there’s a much smaller chance of plaque buildup and tooth discoloration occurring.
Being an adult doesn’t disqualify you from receiving dental sealants; in fact, they might be just the solution that your mouth needs! If you believe your teeth could benefit from dental sealants, don’t hesitate to speak with your dentist—they can absolutely help.
About the Practice
Times Square Family Dental is honored to serve patients and families in the Tyler, TX community under the leadership of Dr. Javier Perez. Dr. Perez received his dental doctorate from UCLA and has over 25 years of experience in dentistry. His practice is pleased to offer a wide range of available services including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry options. If you have any questions about dental sealants or would like to schedule a visit, you can contact the practice online or over the phone: (903) 534-8110.