The Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children and Adults

If you are looking for a preventative measure against tooth decay, dental sealants may be the right solution for you. Sealants are usually recommended for children and teenagers, but they can also be an effective treatment option for adult patients with no tooth decay or fillings in their back teeth. Dental sealants work by sealing out decay and protecting the chewing surfaces of your teeth. They are especially recommended for children, whose natural shape of growing teeth is more prone to cavities. If you have any questions about dental sealants, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

Understanding Cavities and Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a common problem for both children and adults, but it can be prevented with proper diet and oral hygiene habits. Cavities form when acids produced by bacteria in the mouth erode away enamel and create small holes or openings in the tooth. When this happens, bacteria can enter the tooth and cause infection. Without treatment, cavities can lead to pain and even tooth loss.

Cavity Symptoms

The most common symptom of tooth decay is aching or sensitivity, especially when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods. Other signs may include:

• Bad breath
• Dark spots or holes on the tooth surface
• Pain when biting down on food
• Visible brown, yellow, or white staining on the teeth

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of your teeth. They form a protective barrier against plaque and food particles that can lead to cavities and decay. Sealants also help fill in any microscopic cracks or crevices in your enamel, making it more difficult for bacteria to find a place to lodge and cause cavities.

Are Dental Sealants Just For Children?

No! While sealants are most commonly recommended for children, they can also be beneficial for adult patients. Children and adults can benefit from sealants, but the earlier you get them, the better. Your first molars appear around age 6, and second molars break through around age 12. Sealing these teeth as soon as they come through can keep them cavity-free from the start, which helps save time and money in the long run. Ask your dentist if sealants are a good option for you and your family.

What Are The Benefits Of Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a great way to help prevent cavities and tooth decay, as they create an effective barrier against plaque and food particles that can cause decay. Cavity protection is the main benefit of dental sealants, but they’re also:

• Fast—the procedure should only take a few minutes per tooth
• Safe—you may be exposed to a tiny amount of bisphenol A (BPA) for a few hours after the procedure, but not enough to harm you
• Painless—no drilling is involved
• Effective—sealants reduce the risk of cavities by 75% over 2–3 years
• Long lasting—like a filling, a sealant can last many years

Cavity Prevention

Dental sealants are just one way to help prevent cavities and tooth decay. The best way to protect your teeth is with a combination of good oral hygiene habits and regular professional dental care. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist every 6 months can go a long way in keeping your teeth healthy. Talk to your dentist about the best strategies for cavity prevention. A healthy mouth is an important part of overall health and wellbeing, so take action now to protect yours!

Cavity Treatment

If you already have a cavity, don’t worry—it can be treated. Your dentist will typically recommend fillings, crowns or root canals to repair the damaged tooth and restore it to its original state. If left untreated, cavities can cause pain and lead to other more serious dental conditions. So if you think you may have a cavity, it’s important to see your dentist right away.

Make an Appointment with Stonebrook Family Dental

If you’re looking to protect your teeth with dental sealants, contact us today. Our experienced team at Stonebrook Family Dental will assess your needs and recommend the best treatment options for you and your family. We are committed to providing high-quality dental care in a comfortable environment. Contact us today to learn more!