Dental sealants are most often associated with procedures performed on children and adolescents to prevent cavities in freshly erupted molars. However, more and more adults are wondering whether this form of prevention is also for them. The answer is yes – in appropriate cases, dental sealants can also be beneficial for adults, provided that certain criteria are met. In this essay, we will look at when and why dental sealants may be indicated in adults, what the benefits are, and whether there are any limitations associated with them.
What is dental sealant?
Dental sealant is a preventive procedure that involves covering the chewing surfaces of teeth with a thin layer of a special protective material – a so-called fissure sealant. This procedure protects deep grooves, pits, and crevices of teeth from the accumulation of bacteria and food debris that contribute to the development of tooth decay.
Dental sealant does not require drilling, is completely painless, and takes only a few minutes. In the case of children, it is most often performed on the first and second permanent molars. In adults, however, this procedure is performed less often, although it can be just as effective.
When do dental sealants make sense in adults?
Not every adult patient qualifies for dental sealants. This procedure can only be performed on teeth free of caries, cracks, and fillings on the chewing surfaces. Indications for dental sealants in adults include:
- Deep grooves and fissures in the teeth that are difficult to clean, even with good hygiene
- High risk of dental caries - e.g., due to chronic diseases, reduced saliva secretion, a diet high in sugars, recurrent dental cavities
- Patients with orthodontic appliances, for whom maintaining hygiene is difficult
- Teeth that have just erupted, even in adults - e.g., wisdom teeth
- Adults with limited manual dexterity who have difficulty brushing their teeth thoroughly
It is worth remembering that although sealants prevent cavities, they will not replace daily oral hygiene; they are only a supplement to it.
Advantages of sealing teeth in adults
Sealing has a number of advantages in adulthood, including:
- Protection against caries - up to 80% reduction in the risk of cavities in protected teeth
- No need for drilling - the material is applied without damaging the tooth structure
- Quick and painless - the procedure takes a few minutes, does not require anesthesia
- Lower costs compared to later treatment of cavities
Additionally, in people with increased susceptibility to caries, sealing can be a great complement to methods such as fluoridation or regular dental check-ups.
Limitations and contraindications
The procedure is not possible if the tooth has a filling or a seal on the chewing surface, has visible cavities, or is badly worn or has damaged grooves. In addition, there is no point in sealing teeth with smooth chewing surfaces. In such cases, the risk of cavities is minimal anyway.
It is also important to regularly check the sealant once applied - it can wear off, chip, or require refilling over time. A properly applied sealant can last from 2 to even 10 years, depending on the conditions in the oral cavity and the patient's lifestyle.
In conclusion
Teeth sealing is not just a procedure for children - adults can also benefit from it if they have healthy teeth with deep grooves and are at risk of caries. It is a safe, quick, and painless method of prevention that can protect against more invasive treatment in the future. Call us today to discuss whether you qualify for sealant treatment, especially if you want to keep your teeth healthy for many years.