Are you one of the millions of adults who still have dental sealants from childhood? Or perhaps you never received sealants growing up and are wondering if it’s too late to get them now. As a dental health expert at Station Road Dental Aldergrove, I’m here to share the surprising benefits of dental sealants for adults and why they’re worth considering at any age.
The Purpose of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). Their primary purpose is to prevent ​tooth decay by creating a physical barrier that blocks out the bacteria and food particles that can lead to cavities.
Sealants work particularly well on the irregular, grooved surfaces of the back teeth, which are the most susceptible to decay. By “sealing” these vulnerable areas, sealants significantly reduce the risk of cavities and the need for fillings or other restorative treatments.
While sealants are most commonly placed on children’s teeth, the benefits extend to adults as well. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends sealants for both children and adults to prevent tooth decay.
The Importance of Adult Dental Sealants
Many people assume that sealants are only for children, but the truth is that adults can benefit just as much, if not more, from this simple preventive treatment. Here’s why adult dental sealants are so important:
Continued Cavity Risk
Even if you’ve been diligent with your oral hygiene and regular dental visits, your risk of developing cavities doesn’t magically disappear as an adult. The deep grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth remain vulnerable to decay-causing bacteria and food debris.
In fact, according to the CDC, about one in four adults aged 20 to 64 have untreated tooth decay. This statistic highlights the ongoing need for preventive measures like dental sealants, even in adulthood.
Existing Fillings and Restorations
Many adults have existing fillings, crowns, or other dental work on their back teeth. While these restorations can be effective, they don’t provide the same level of protection as sealants for the surrounding enamel. Sealants can be placed over restorations to further shield these vulnerable areas from decay.
Tooth Grinding and Clenching
Bruxism, or the involuntary grinding and clenching of teeth, is a common issue for adults. This habit can wear down tooth enamel over time, making the teeth more susceptible to cavities. Sealants create an additional layer of protection to help preserve the remaining enamel.
Dry Mouth and Medication Use
Certain medications, medical conditions, and age-related changes can lead to decreased saliva production, a condition known as xerostomia or dry mouth. Reduced saliva flow means less natural protection against the acids and bacteria that cause cavities. Sealants can help compensate for this decreased salivary flow by physically blocking access to the tooth surfaces.
Accessibility Challenges
As we grow older, mobility issues or other physical limitations can make it more difficult to thoroughly clean our teeth. Sealants provide an extra line of defense against decay, even when oral hygiene practices may not be as effective as they once were.
The Sealant Application Process
The process of applying dental sealants is quick, comfortable, and minimally invasive. Here’s what you can expect:
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Preparation: First, your dentist or dental hygienist will thoroughly clean and dry the targeted tooth or teeth. This ensures the sealant will properly adhere to the enamel.
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Etching: A mild acidic solution is then applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth, creating a slightly roughened texture that helps the sealant bond securely.
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Sealant Application: The liquid sealant material is carefully painted onto the prepared tooth surfaces. It then quickly hardens, creating a durable protective barrier.
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Curing: A special curing light may be used to help the sealant harden and set in place.
The entire process typically takes less than 30 minutes per tooth and requires no anesthesia or drilling. Many people describe the experience as quick and painless.
Longevity and Maintenance
One of the key benefits of dental sealants is their longevity. With proper care, sealants can last for many years, providing lasting protection against tooth decay.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), sealants can remain effective for up to 10 years. However, they do require periodic monitoring and maintenance by your dentist. During routine dental visits, your provider will check the condition of your sealants and determine if they need to be repaired or replaced.
It’s important to note that sealants are not a substitute for good oral hygiene practices. Brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings (prophylaxis) are still essential for maintaining overall dental health. Sealants simply add an extra layer of protection to the most vulnerable areas of your teeth.
Real-Life Patient Examples
Let’s take a look at a few real-life scenarios where adult dental sealants have made a significant difference:
Sarah, age 42: Sarah had received sealants as a child but never thought to have them reapplied as an adult. Over the years, her sealants had worn down, and she started developing cavities on the chewing surfaces of her molars. After getting the sealants renewed, Sarah was able to avoid the need for fillings and additional restorative treatments.
Michael, age 55: Michael had been dealing with xerostomia (dry mouth) due to a medication he was taking for a chronic condition. This put him at a higher risk of tooth decay. His dentist recommended sealants as an extra safeguard against cavities, and Michael has been cavity-free ever since.
Evelyn, age 68: Evelyn had limited mobility due to arthritis, making it challenging for her to thoroughly clean her teeth. Her dentist suggested sealants to help protect her teeth, especially the hard-to-reach areas. This has given Evelyn additional peace of mind about her oral health as she ages.
These examples illustrate how dental sealants can benefit adults of all ages, from those with existing restorations to individuals facing physical or medical challenges. By taking this simple preventive step, adults can enjoy a healthier, more confident smile for years to come.
The Cost and Coverage of Sealants
The cost of dental sealants can vary depending on your location, the complexity of the treatment, and your dental insurance coverage. On average, the out-of-pocket cost for adults to have sealants placed ranges from $30 to $60 per tooth.
It’s important to note that many dental insurance plans, including those offered through Station Road Dental Aldergrove, do cover the cost of sealants for both children and adults. The coverage may be subject to annual limits or other restrictions, so it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider or our team to understand your specific benefits.
If you don’t have dental insurance or your plan doesn’t cover sealants, there are still options available. Many dental practices, including Station Road Dental Aldergrove, offer affordable payment plans or financing solutions to help make sealants more accessible.
Addressing Dental Anxiety
For some adults, the idea of getting dental treatment, even a simple procedure like sealants, can be a source of dental anxiety or fear. This is a common concern, but it’s important to know that there are various techniques and technologies available to help make the experience as comfortable as possible.
At Station Road Dental Aldergrove, we understand the importance of addressing dental anxiety. Our team of compassionate professionals is dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming environment and using the latest sedation dentistry methods to ensure your comfort. We also offer personalized pain management strategies to help you feel at ease throughout the sealant application process.
The Bottom Line
Dental sealants aren’t just for children – they can provide significant benefits for adults of all ages as well. By creating a physical barrier against the bacteria and food debris that lead to cavities, sealants can help prevent tooth decay and the need for costly restorative treatments.
Whether you’re looking to protect your existing dental work, compensate for reduced salivary flow, or simply maintain a healthy, confident smile, adult dental sealants may be a worthwhile investment in your long-term oral health. To learn more or schedule an appointment, please visit Station Road Dental Aldergrove today.
