What Are Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, specifically the premolars and molars. These teeth have deep grooves and pits that are difficult to clean thoroughly with a toothbrush, making them especially vulnerable to decay. Sealants fill in these grooves, creating a smooth surface that is much easier to keep clean and far less likely to develop cavities.
The application process is quick, painless, and completely non-invasive. At Ingleside Dentistry, Dr. Timothy G. Hill cleans the tooth surface, applies a gentle conditioning solution, and then paints the sealant material onto the tooth. A special light is used to harden the sealant in place. The entire procedure takes just a few minutes per tooth.
Why Sealants Are Especially Important for Children
Children and teenagers are the most common recipients of dental sealants, and for good reason. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sealants prevent approximately 80 percent of cavities in the back teeth during the first two years after application. School-aged children without sealants have nearly three times more first-molar cavities than those with sealants.
Kids are still developing their brushing and flossing skills, and they tend to consume more sugary foods and beverages than adults. These factors combined with the deep grooves in newly erupted permanent molars create a perfect environment for tooth decay. Dr. Hill recommends that children receive sealants on their permanent molars as soon as they come in, typically around age 6 for the first molars and age 12 for the second molars.
How Sealants Benefit Adults
While sealants are most commonly associated with pediatric dentistry, adults can benefit from them as well. If you have deep grooves in your molars and a history of cavities on your chewing surfaces, sealants can provide an additional layer of protection. They are also a good option for adults who are at higher risk for decay due to dry mouth, medication use, or dietary habits.
The longevity of dental sealants is another advantage. With proper care, sealants can last five to ten years before needing to be reapplied. During your regular checkups at Ingleside Dentistry, Dr. Hill checks the condition of existing sealants and repairs or replaces any that have worn down or chipped.
Sealants as Part of a Preventive Strategy
Dental sealants are most effective when combined with a comprehensive preventive care routine. This includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing once a day, eating a balanced diet low in sugary snacks, and visiting Ingleside Dentistry every six months for professional cleanings and examinations. Fluoride treatments, whether applied in the office or used at home, work hand in hand with sealants to strengthen and protect tooth enamel.
The cost of dental sealants is modest compared to the expense of treating the cavities they prevent. Most dental insurance plans cover sealants for children and teenagers, and many cover them for adults as well. If you are interested in sealants for yourself or your children, contact Ingleside Dentistry at (361) 776-3535. Dr. Hill and his team will be happy to evaluate whether sealants are the right preventive measure for your family.