Dental sealants are a powerful tool in the fight against tooth decay, offering impressive tooth protection benefits for all ages. At Porter Dental Health Clinic, PA, our experienced dentists frequently recommend dental sealants for kids and adults alike.
Today’s blog explores how dental sealants can help both groups protect their oral health and maintain healthy smiles.
How Dental Sealants Work
Dental sealants are wafer-thin protective coatings that our dentists apply to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (for example, the molars). These teeth are the perfect place for sealants because they’re more difficult to clean thoroughly, and thus more likely to develop cavities.
The sealants mold to your teeth, and you don’t really feel them after a brief period of adjustment. They act as a barrier. They help keep food particles and bacteria from settling into the grooves of your teeth and causing cavities — and cavity prevention is great for all ages.
Sealants for Kids
Children are particularly vulnerable to cavities because their teeth are still developing. Baby teeth have softer enamel, and it’s easier for food particles and bacteria to penetrate. In addition, kids are well-known for their less-than-ideal oral hygiene habits. It takes time to learn good habits, and sealants can help protect your children’s teeth in the meantime.
One study showed that children who weren’t treated with dental sealants were three times more likely to develop cavities than those who were. Sealants can last several years in kids, so they’re an important part of oral health care at a critical age.
Sealants for Adults
While dental sealants are often associated with children, they can be equally beneficial for adults. They may be especially helpful if you’re prone to cavities or have deep grooves in your molars.
So, if you feel like you’ve spent far too much time in the dental chair getting fillings, sealants could be just as protective for you as for your children. Investing in sealants as an adult could potentially save you money in the long term because it might help you avoid more complex dental procedures like root canals and crowns.
Need Dental Sealants in Hot Springs?
If you’re considering dental sealants for your family, our experienced dental team can provide this painless treatment here in our Hot Springs office. By choosing sealants, you’re making a proactive decision to protect your family’s dental health.
Don’t wait for cavities to develop — take action now and protect your family’s teeth with dental sealants. Contact us online or call our office at 501-624-2778 to enjoy a healthier, cavity-free smile.
