Tiny Shield, Big Protection: Why Dental Sealants Aren’t Just for Kids

We all know how important it is to protect our teeth. Sure, there are tooth replacement options out there, but it’s always best to focus on doing what we can to take care of our natural teeth. And it starts when we’re young. Our parents teach us to brush and floss. They introduce us to healthy foods rich in vitamins and calcium. They bring us to the dentist every six months for a professional dental cleaning and evaluation. Some parents even elect to have their child’s teeth protected with dental sealants.

But what about our teeth once we’re adults? Yes, we continue to brush and floss. Yet isn’t there an extra layer of protection, like the one we get when we’re kids? There sure is. Dental sealants aren’t just for kids anymore.

What are dental sealants?

When we talk to kids about cavity-prevention treatments and dental sealants, we explain them as superheroes who come in to protect their teeth. And honestly, that’s a pretty good way to explain it. 

Simply put, sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. In most cases, we focus on the molars. These teeth have super-small grooves and pits where food particles and cavity-causing bacteria love to hide. Even with regular brushing, those spots can sometimes be difficult to clean completely.

Once the sealant is applied, it creates a barrier over those areas, helping reduce the risk of decay. The process is quick and painless and can be done during a regular dental visit.

Why Kids Get Sealants (and Why That Matters)

If you’re a parent, you’ve probably heard your dentist suggest dental sealants. And there’s a good reason to agree to the treatment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that dental sealants are highly effective in preventing 80% of cavities that form on the back teeth. For that reason, 60% of kids between the ages of six and 11 now have dental sealants on their molars. 

Let’s explain that a bit more simply. Here’s why dental sealants are so important for kids.

• Children are still learning proper brushing and flossing habits, which can leave certain areas of the mouth easier to miss.
• Baby teeth and newly erupted adult molars are more likely to develop decay during childhood.
• Cavities at a young age can lead to pain, missed school days, and more dental treatment later on.

Why Adults Can Benefit From Cavity Prevention Treatments 

You may think that dental sealants are just for kids. But the best dentist in Dallas, Texas, is here to tell you otherwise. And even if you have had a cavity in your molars before, that doesn’t mean you can’t get dental sealants either.

Dental sealants are a great option for those with deep pits and grooves on their molars. If you’ve had a cavity or have one, we simply need to make sure your teeth are properly filled before applying the sealants. It’s that simple.

Before we move on, let’s briefly summarize why adults can benefit from dental sealants. 

• Adults with deep grooves in their molars may still trap food and plaque, even with daily brushing.
• Dental sealants may help lower the chance of future cavities and additional dental work.
• People who have experienced tooth decay in the past may want added protection for cavity-prone areas.

Benefits of Dental Sealants 

Ultimately, dental sealants are all about cavity prevention. Consider that nine out of ten (if you’re doing the math, that’s 90%) of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 years have had a cavity of some kind in their teeth. That’s not a small number.

The number isn’t much smaller for kids. Nearly half of kids between the ages of six and nine have had a cavity either in their baby teeth or adult teeth. And if dental sealants can prevent 80% of cavities in the back teeth alone? Well, it seems like a no-brainer to get them.

What to Expect During the Dental Procedure

Many adults (and kids, too) feel a bit anxious when going to the dentist. And we understand why. It can feel a bit intimidating to have someone else’s hands, plus those unfamiliar dental tools, in your mouth. That just so happens to be why, at Dallas Cosmetic Dental, we take extra steps to make sure our patients are comfortable each and every time they visit us.

Thankfully, however, getting dental sealants is quick and painless. Here’s how it works.

• We clean and dry the applicable teeth before starting the procedure
• A thin layer of sealant is painted onto the chewing surface of the teeth
• A special light may be used to harden the sealant, or it may set on its own in just a few minutes
• Once finished, you can eat and drink normally right away

It really is that easy. 

Ask Us About Dental Sealants Today

Sure, you can replace your teeth if something happens. But do you really want to take that approach? The way we see it, cavity prevention happens actively, not passively or reactively. And dental sealants are a great way to protect your smile.

If you want to protect your teeth and learn more about how dental sealants and other general dentistry treatments can keep your teeth cavity-free, it’s time to get on our calendar. Schedule your next appointment today.