Categories: Dental Sealants

Can Adults Get Dental Sealants

In many situations, dentists successfully utilize dental sealants to protect a patient's teeth from harmful decay. This simple preventative treatment is typically recommended for younger children but can also be helpful for adults as well. In fact, some dental professionals suggest sealants for adults with healthy teeth approaching middle and advanced age. While a wide variety of people may be excellent candidates for this procedure, it is important to understand the intended use and appropriate situations for a more successful outcome.

Candidates for this procedure

According to the American Dental Association, dental sealants can reduce tooth decay by as much as 80%. Due to the simple application technique and overall durability, sealants are manageable for all ages. A dentist may recommend this treatment to protect a person's teeth as long as they meet the requirements.

Children

When a child's permanent teeth begin to grow in, cavities become a more serious concern. Kids are less likely to perform adequate oral hygiene and are more likely to consume sugary foods and beverages that can lead to decay. Molars are especially prone to cavities because of the deep grooves that can trap and hold bacteria. As a result, many dentists recommend sealing the molars of children once they appear above the gum line, around age six and again around age 12.

Adults

Once a person develops healthy oral hygiene practices and understands the health benefits of a nutritious diet, the risks of tooth decay can diminish. However, there are several reasons a dentist may suggest sealants to an adult patient. Individual tooth shape and structure may be particularly prone to decay. In addition, saliva production tends to drop with age and can be exacerbated by certain medications. Adequate saliva production plays a vital role in fighting bacteria and disease in the mouth. Sealants can help protect healthy teeth in such situations.

Understanding dental sealants

This treatment is simple to apply and easy to maintain. However, it is important to note that sealants are not recommended for implants or teeth with these issues:

  • Existing decay
  • Fillings
  • Crowns
  • Bridges

Most professionals recommend reserving this approach for healthy, natural teeth.

Application and function

First, a dentist thoroughly cleans the tooth and uses an acidic gel to create a suitable base for the sealant to adhere to. Once the tooth is prepped, a thin layer of composite plastic material is applied and shaped over the area. Finally, a blue dental curing light is used to harden and set the sealant in place. The entire process is painless and noninvasive.

The artificial surface helps prevent food particles, liquids and bacteria from accessing the deep crevices of the tooth. As a result, decay is less likely to occur, enabling the patient to maintain oral health with proper care. While this simple covering is not necessary for some adults, some can benefit from the added protection.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Sealants in Scottsdale, AZ.

Conclusion

While dental sealants are more common among school-aged children, people of all ages can utilize this type of preventative care. A dentist can help determine if this procedure should be added to a patient's treatment plan.

Request an appointment or call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at 480-439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.

Recent Posts

Dental Sealants For Adults And Children

It is important to do everything you can to protect your teeth, including other options like getting dental sealants put on. Sealants are an option that is available to help protect your teeth from further damage and decay from day-to-day wear. If you're unfamiliar with what a sealant is and how they work, this blog…

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Dental Sealants

While dental sealants can be performed for patients of any age, they are usually given to children. The molars and premolars bear primary responsibility for chewing food. These teeth also have crevices where food can get stuck more easily and are more difficult to clean. Sealants are made of a resin that is painted on…

Important Facts About Dental Sealant Placement

Dental sealant placement forms a barrier between the teeth and the substances that can cause tooth decay. It is a powerful tool to prevent tooth decay, especially in children. However, it is not a substitute for good oral hygiene. Patients with sealants still need to brush and floss on a daily basis and see a…

Dr. Haleh Bazargan

Share
Published by
Dr. Haleh Bazargan

Recent Posts

Invisalign for Teens: FAQs About the Procedure

Invisalign® has been around for a little more than two decades and, in that time,…

2 days ago

Invisalign Can Correct Your Teen’s Improper Bite

The teenage years can be awkward, especially for those who have to deal with crooked…

5 days ago

Invisalign for Teens: Am I a Good Candidate?

There are various options for straightening teeth. Invisalign® for teens is a popular option for…

1 week ago

4 Tips to Improve a Teen’s Invisalign Experience

Invisalign® clear aligner trays are not just for adults; teenagers and some children can also…

2 weeks ago

Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening

Whitening patients' teeth involves a simple procedure that a dentist can perform in one visit…

2 weeks ago

Can Invisalign for Teens Affect Speech?

A significant advantage of Invisalign® for teens is that it makes the treatment more discreet…

2 weeks ago