Are Dental Sealants for Children’s Teeth Only?

You may have heard about dental sealants being recommended to help prevent cavities in kids’ teeth. But can adults also get them? At Lexington Smiles, our dentist in Lexington, VA, offers dental sealants for patients of all ages as a great way to protect against tooth decay. Let’s explore what makes sealants such an effective treatment.

What Are They?

Sealants are coverings or coatings that we apply to the back teeth, including the molars and premolars, to keep them safe from bacteria and tooth decay.

How Do They Work?

Dental sealants cover and protect the grooves in molars and premolars, lowering the risk of having food get trapped and cause cavities. This coating helps prevent bacteria from being able to invade the tooth.

Who Can Get Them?

We offer dental sealants in Lexington, VA, to children and adults. We strongly recommend them for kids, especially if they’re younger and have trouble thoroughly brushing the surfaces of their back teeth. Adults who don’t have fillings or cavities already in their molars and premolars can also get sealants.

What Is the Sealant Process Like?

It’s a simple treatment that involves cleaning and drying the back teeth, then painting a solution to make the surfaces a bit rougher for better bonding. We then apply the sealants to the top surfaces of the premolars and molars and use a curing light to help them harden.

How Long Do They Last?

Dental sealants usually last for about five years before needing to be reapplied.

Make Dental Sealant Appointments for the Whole Family!

Keep everyone in your family safe from cavities. At Lexington Smiles, our dentist offers dental sealants in Lexington, VA, to help lower the risk of tooth decay, so you and your loved ones can enjoy having healthy teeth!