When you hear the words “dental sealants,” you probably think about little kids who are prone to tooth decay and need an additional layer of protection on their teeth. But did you know that adults with deep grooves in their teeth or who are at high risk for cavities may also benefit from dental sealants?
It’s true; dental sealants can be an effective treatment option for patients of all ages.
The Myths About Sealants
Dental sealants are often used on kids with newly emerging permanent teeth, adding a layer of cavity protection.
However, it’s a myth that sealants are only for children; they work well to defend against adult cavities, too.
When Sealants Work Well for Adults
When you visit our Bellevue dental office for a routine cleaning and exam, we might recommend dental sealants.
We use sealants on healthy teeth when you have deep grooves where food particles and plaque are likely to get trapped.
Even if you brush and floss every day, sometimes it’s not enough to reach these irregular tooth surfaces.
What You Need to Know About Sealants
Dental sealants work well at shielding your teeth from decay, and they can last for several years.
Here’s what you should know about this common treatment:
- Longevity — Sealants can last for five years or more; they gradually wear down when you bite down and chew.
- Maintenance — Sealants don’t require any special care; just brush and floss your teeth each day and try to avoid any undue stress on your teeth. Make sure to avoid biting on hard objects, and if you grind your teeth, talk to us about a custom mouthguard.
- Follow-up visits — If your sealants wear down, our dental team can repair or replace them. We’ll examine your sealants every six months during your routine checkup.
Looking for Preventive Dentistry in Bellevue, NE?
If you have questions about dental sealants for adults in Bellevue, or if you find yourself searching the internet for “Bellevue preventive dental care,” we hope you’ll reach out to our experienced team!
At Kennedy Dental, we’re committed to helping every patient achieve a healthy, beautiful smile, and we’d love to welcome you to our dental family.
To schedule a visit, please call our office at (402) 291-3535.