Tooth decay is one of the most common conditions plaguing one’s oral health. It’s common among children and teenagers, but adults also experience it. Luckily, there are interventions to prevent the onset of tooth decay, and dental sealants are one of them.
Dental sealants are thin plastic coverings that are put on the grooves and depressions of your molars. As the sealant bonds with the chewing surfaces of your teeth, it protects them from damage and decay.
In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of dental sealants and who should receive them.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
-
Added Protection
Food particles can easily get trapped on your teeth’s surface, especially on your molars. They can become breeding grounds for bacteria, and once they enter the grooves and depressions of your molars, they can eat away at the enamel. This then causes tooth decay. Thankfully, dental sealants do the job of acting as a protecting layer against decay-causing bacteria.
-
Natural-Looking
Because people are afraid of being made fun of, they are hesitant to take preventative measures to protect their teeth, especially if these are noticeable. However, this is not the case with dental sealants! Dental sealants can be clear or white, providing natural protection invisible to the naked eye. Nobody would even notice you have sealants on your teeth.
-
Durable
If you’re worried they may get damaged over time, you don’t have to. Dental sealants are very durable; chewing and biting won’t affect their structure and bond on your teeth. As long as they’re completely bonded, they can withstand years of use and won’t require reapplication.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
-
Children
Children are probably the best candidates for a dental sealant. They are most susceptible to tooth decay, so protecting them early on through sealants can benefit them until adulthood. Sealants can prevent cavities or erosion, which are sadly all too common in kids.
-
Teenagers
Like children, teenagers can benefit greatly from dental sealants. They’re still considered “young”, and the earlier they are protected against tooth decay, the better. So, if you have teenage children, consult a dental professional regarding dental sealants.
-
Adults
While dental sealants are best recommended for children and teenagers, adults shouldn’t discount sealants as an option to better their oral health. To know if you can benefit from sealants as an adult, talk to your dentist. In case sealants are not for you at this point, they will be able to recommend other treatment options and perform procedures to keep your oral health in check.
Conclusion
Dental sealants are definitely helpful as a preventive measure against tooth decay and damage. They are durable and won’t require reapplication, so you can eat and drink as usual. They are also natural-looking, so you won’t have to worry about people noticing you have them on. However, not everyone may benefit from dental sealants. It’s most recommended in children and teenagers, and if you’re an adult and you’re interested in getting sealants, it’s best to consult your dentist first.
Choose an affordable dentist in Mansfield if you want to protect your teeth from cavities using dental sealants. Ivy Rose DDS offers the most affordable yet high-quality dental sealants, dental guards, Invisalign braces, and other significant dental services and accessories in the area. Schedule an appointment today!
