The Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children and Adults

What Are Dental Sealants and How Do They Work?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars, where cavities are most likely to form. These sealants act as a barrier, preventing bacteria and food particles from settling in the deep grooves of your teeth.

At Glen Forest Dental, our team uses the iTero 3D digital intraoral scanner to ensure precision during the sealant application. The process is simple, non-invasive, and takes just a few minutes. After a thorough cleaning, the sealant is painted onto the tooth, creating a shield that protects against decay for years to come.

The Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children

Children’s teeth, especially their molars, are at high risk for decay, making dental sealants an excellent preventive measure. During the early years, brushing may not always be enough to keep cavities at bay, which is why sealants are especially beneficial for kids.

We understand the importance of providing a comfortable and educational experience for young patients. By offering dental sealants, we help parents protect their children’s teeth during the most cavity-prone years, potentially saving them from future dental treatments.

Why Choose Sealants for Your Child?

• Cavity Protection: Sealants guard against tooth decay during childhood, when molars are most vulnerable.
• Cost-Effective: Investing in sealants today can prevent more expensive and invasive treatments in the future.
• Near Invisibility: Sealants are tooth-colored and blend in with the natural teeth, making them virtually unnoticeable.
• Long Lifespan: With proper care, sealants can last several years, providing long-lasting protection.
• Comfortable Experience: Our team ensures that children feel at ease, with a focus on patient education and prevention.

Can Adults Benefit from Dental Sealants Too?

Absolutely! While dental sealants are commonly associated with children, adults can benefit from them as well. If you have deep grooves in your molars, you may be at risk of cavities, even with excellent oral hygiene. Sealants provide an added layer of protection for those hard-to-reach areas.

Dr. Kayla Roe believe in educating adult patients on the value of preventive care. By using the latest technology, such as digital X-rays and iTero scanning, we ensure precision in applying sealants, helping adults avoid costly restorative treatments down the road.

How Do Dental Sealants Compare to Other Cavity Prevention Methods?

Dental sealants complement other cavity prevention strategies like fluoride treatments and regular cleanings, but they offer an additional defense. While brushing and fluoride can help protect your teeth, sealants physically block bacteria from settling in the crevices of your molars, providing protection that other methods alone can’t achieve. At Glen Forest Dental, we also use digital X-rays to ensure that your teeth are free from decay before applying sealants, ensuring the best results.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a great option for both children and adults who want to protect their teeth from cavities. Children, especially those who are around the age of 6 when their first molars emerge, benefit greatly from sealants as they are more prone to decay during these early years. However, adults with deep grooves in their molars or a history of cavities can also benefit from dental sealants.