You must have heard about dental sealants being used on children but about older people? Since they have numerous benefits, can adults get dental sealants on their teeth? Yes, why not? They are safe, effective, and worth the money.
Adults and Dental Sealants
There is a very small fraction of people who make it to adult life without developing a cavity in their teeth. While the incidence of dental caries is higher in young children, adults get new cavities, too. That is why older people can also get dental sealants as a protective/preventive measure.
It is uncommon for adults to skip an oral hygiene regime like adequate brushing and flossing; it is still possible to have cavities. Poor dental habits aside, adults may suffer the wrath of cavities because of factors like health or aging.
According to an article by the ADA, more than 500 medications can cause dry mouth. This is usually not taken seriously; however, when you lack saliva, the natural tongue-cleaning agent you leave more field for bacteria to play on the enamel. Dry mouth is a common consequence of age, especially in adults who regularly take medicines to treat their chronic illnesses.
Old patients, those who are disabled and have advanced to the latter years of life might benefit from adult dental sealants. Health conditions like ALS, MS, or dementia make it difficult for someone to maintain their oral health themselves, making them prone to developing cavities.
Advantages of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a thin, plastic coat spread on the chewing surfaces of teeth. This coat is painted primarily on the ones at the back (premolars and molars). This is because they are more prone to accumulate food particles and hence develop cavities. Dental sealants encapsulate the depressions and grooves of your teeth, acting as a protective shield over the enamel.
Here are several benefits that it offers:
- Prevents Tooth Decay
The good news is that dental sealants can last up to 10 years if teeth are properly taken care of. Timely upkeep via routine check-ups is necessary to see the extent of chips and wearing after some time. - Protects From Future Cavities
Dental sealants can work in adults if they develop cavities caught in the early stages of decay. Applying a sealant in such a case prevents further damage to teeth. - Combat Aging
As we grow old and our body ages, the protective qualities of our gums and teeth decrease. The mode of action of our saliva and teeth age and change during our lives. Adults can take advantage of dental sealants and slow down the effects of external factors on their teeth. - Better Appearance
Dental sealants play a pivotal role in safeguarding your oral health by making brushing easier and improving the aesthetics of your smile. They seal off back teeth, reducing the chances of food debris, bacteria, and stains of any sort from accumulating in those hard-to-reach areas, leaving you with a clean, healthy, and white smile.
Closing Note
Not only is it important to keep up regular dental visits throughout life, but adults should consider getting dental sealants if they are more likely to get cavities. Follow your dentist’s instructions for special dietary changes, if any. If you want more information and do not know where to start, contact Dr. Paichun (Patrick) Huang, DDS, with fellowship status
Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) at Briar Forest Dental Group. We are here to answer all your queries and issues; dial (713) 784-4430 to connect with us. Feel free to learn ways we can be of help.