Dental Sealants Not Just for Kids!

Prevention shouldn’t have an age limit – here’s why you should start getting sealants on your permanent teeth.
There is a common misconception among patients that dental sealants are just for kids. However, this simple preventative measure can deliver benefits to patients of all ages. It’s time to change the way you think about sealants. Dental sealants are an economical and a longer-term preventive solution: when intact, they can protect teeth for years. In fact, a series of studies found that patients who received occlusal sealants saw a 73% reduction in caries compared to those who only received fluoride varnish.
What are Sealants? They are typically resin or glass-ionomer based and are applied to the surface of teeth in a liquid form before being cured either chemically or with light. From there, they act as a protective shield for the most hardworking places in the mouth – occlusal or chewing surfaces.
Occlusal or chewing surfaces are eight times more susceptible to caries than smooth surfaces. Their anatomical grooves, pits and fissures trap food particles more easily and promote bacterial biofilm, thereby increasing the risk of caries. And unfortunately, regular brushing isn’t always enough – even a great toothbrush can’t reach into every nook and cranny. That’s where sealants come in. By sealing and smoothing these surfaces, you’re not only preventing decay but also aiding in future maintenance.
With a sealant in place, a basic toothbrush can remove debris easily without anything falling through the cracks, effectively preventing decay. In fact, sealants can actually halt the decay process in its tracks, as long as any carious lesions are not cavitated. Add in fast application and a lifespan of 5-10 years (with occasional touchups), and you get a simple preventative solution with ample benefits. Generally, it’s recommended that children have their molars sealed as soon as they appear, due to sealants’ ability to reduce the risk of decay in molars by nearly 80%. But these benefits don’t stop at a certain age!
The fact of the matter is that decay doesn’t have an age limit. Caries risk factors don’t go away as you get older – instead, they may actually get worse. The ADA defines high-risk patients as those who have one or more risk factors including :Active caries in the last 12 months, Drymouth, Active orthodontic treatment, Sub-optimal fluoride exposure & High-acid, high-sugar diet
As patients age, they encounter a whole different set of variables that can increase their caries risk – including other medical conditions and prescription medications that impact saliva flow. In addition, with the rising trend of adult orthodontic patients, patients may be at a higher risk than they would be under normal circumstances. Older patients may also have difficulty performing their own oral hygiene procedures, which could make something as simple as a sealant a life changing solution.
You can be proactive in getting another layer of defense against tooth decay – and help prevent bigger problems down the road. For any questions or concerns, please call the Office of Dr. Kimberly A. Rosen. (661)255-2545.