Dental Sealants for Adults
Typically used in children and young adults, dental sealants can be an invaluable tool in helping prevent tooth decay. However, older patients may wonder if they are candidates for dental sealants, what the procedure involves, and if the sealants work the same way for adults as they do for children.
Acting as a protective barrier against cavities and tooth decay, the American Dental Association (ADA) indicates that dental sealants can be used for patients of all ages despite primarily being geared toward children. While most often used on the back permanent teeth (molars and premolars) of children, young adults, and patients prone to cavities, dental sealants can be used in adults as well. Because molars and premolars have deep grooves that are difficult to reach and clean, despite age and the frequency or thoroughness of brushing, tooth decay is most common in these areas as they are prone to the accumulation of damaging plaque. Dental sealants offer a protective layer against food and plaque from gathering, which lead to decay, by using a thin layer of plastic material to cover the grooves of the tooth’s chewing surface. By covering the surface area of the tooth, dental sealants offer an ideal form of preventative maintenance by limiting the places harmful bacteria can grow.
The application of dental sealants is typically a simple, fast, and painless procedure for patients that does not require anesthesia. The procedure begins with the dentist or hygienist first cleaning and drying the tooth’s surface. A mild acidic gel is then applied to the tooth in order to roughen the surface and allow the sealant to better adhere once applied. After rinsing off the gel and drying the tooth again, the dental sealant is applied to the tooth surface. The sealant is clear, white, or tinted in order to best match the tooth’s natural color and to minimize any differences in appearance. Using a high intensity light, the sealant is cured or hardened to solidify it onto the tooth. Once the sealant is hardened, patients can resume eating and chewing as normal.
Dental sealants are not permanent, but patients can typically expect the sealants to last 10 years before they will need to be reapplied. Ensuring that proper flossing and brushing techniques are used are the ideal way to maximize the longevity of both a patient’s dental sealants and natural teeth. Routine dental check-ups, cleanings, and fluoride applications are also recommended for sound overall oral hygiene and sealant maintenance.
Despite some short-term cost associated with sealants, patients may find that by proactively protecting their teeth with sealants they wind up saving money down the line. Some dental insurance carriers consider the application of dental sealants to be a preventative measure, like routine dentist visits and cleanings, and are therefore fully covered at no expense to the patient. Patients should therefore verify their dental benefits with their insurance carrier prior to undergoing the procedure. While a great method of fighting tooth decay, dental sealants are not a replacement to a thorough oral hygiene routine.
Info on Dental Sealants : Dental Sealants for Kids