The Role of Sealants in Protecting Your Teeth

Taking care of your teeth involves more than just brushing and flossing. One of the most effective ways to protect your teeth, especially for children and teens, is by getting dental sealants. Sealants are a thin, protective coating that a dentist applies to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. These areas are most likely to get cavities because of their deep grooves and pits.

Sealants act like a barrier, keeping out food particles and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay. Even with regular brushing, it’s hard to fully clean the small crevices in molars. Sealants help by smoothing the surface, making it easier to stay clean and reducing the risk of cavities.

The process of applying sealants is simple and painless. Your dentist cleans the tooth, applies a gel to help the sealant stick, then brushes on the sealant and hardens it with a special light. It takes only a few minutes per tooth, and the protection can last several years before needing a touch-up.

Sealants are most often recommended for children when their permanent molars come in, usually around age 6 and again at age 12. But adults can also benefit from sealants, especially if they are at higher risk of tooth decay or have deep grooves in their molars.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sealants can prevent up to 80% of cavities in the back teeth, where 9 out of 10 cavities occur. That’s a big difference, and it shows just how important this simple treatment can be for long-term dental health.

If you’re looking for a way to add extra protection to your or your child’s smile, talk to your dentist about sealants. It’s a quick and affordable step that can save time, money, and discomfort down the road.