While brushing and flossing regularly is an excellent way to keep your teeth in great shape, some people may need a little extra help protecting their smiles. While you may think that dental sealants are only for children, these treatments can be fantastic options for many adults. Here’s a brief guide to how dental sealants can help a mature individual keep their grin in great shape for years to come.
What Are Dental Sealants? How Do They Work?
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings placed upon the chewing surfaces of the molars to protect these teeth against tooth decay. They adhere to the dental structure by bonding with depressions and grooves within the enamel, creating a durable protective layer that can last up to ten years if the patient practices excellent oral hygiene. If this protective layer becomes chipped or worn, it may be able to be repaired or replaced.
How Can Dental Sealants Benefit My Oral Health?
Dental sealants form a barrier that prevents harmful oral bacteria from infecting your teeth, which can prevent tooth decay such as cavities. These protective barriers may be especially beneficial for adults with lingering baby teeth, but they can help almost anyone who wants to decrease their likelihood of dental infections. This preventative measure can also prevent a host of dental emergencies that may require costly restorative treatments to address.
Older teeth have generally sustained more wear and tear and exposure to harmful agents such as stain-causing dyes or enamel-eroding acids. Dental sealants can be a great way for older adults to reduce their incidence of tooth decay so they can keep their smiles youthful and beautiful.
Can Dental Sealants Make My Smile More Beautiful?
Dental sealants may also offer aesthetic benefits by preventing food particles from accumulating in the pits of your back teeth. These buildups can be quite apparent when you speak or laugh and may distract others from the beauty of the rest of your smile. Receiving dental sealants may help you keep your grin gorgeous for all sorts of social situations.
While dental sealants are usually associated with kids, adults can also benefit from them in a wide range of significant ways. Consulting with your dentist can help you find out if this solution can be a great fit for you.
About the Practice
Dr. Jeff Yenzer earned his dental degree at the University of Missouri in Kansas City and has completed extensive postgraduate coursework in endodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and dental implants. He takes great pride in helping the community of Chesterfield maintain gorgeous smiles and excellent oral health. His office offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental sealants. If you’re curious about what dental sealants may be able to do for you, contact his office online or dial (636) 778-3019.