Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, specifically the molars and premolars. These surfaces contain small depressions, known as pits and fissures, where food particles and decay-causing bacteria can easily become trapped and are difficult to reach with a toothbrush. While historically associated with children, the answer to whether adults can receive this preventive treatment is definitively yes. Sealants are a simple, non-invasive method for adults to protect their healthy teeth and significantly reduce the risk of future decay.
Adult Eligibility and Indications for Sealants
The primary indication for dental sealants in an adult is the presence of deep, unrestored pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of the molars or premolars. These deep grooves are naturally prone to trapping plaque and bacteria, making them susceptible to cavities. If a tooth has never had a filling and the dentist identifies these features, the tooth is a suitable candidate for a sealant application.
A dentist may also recommend sealants for adults who have a high overall risk of developing cavities. This increased risk can be due to medical conditions that affect oral health, such as dry mouth (xerostomia), which reduces the natural cleansing and buffering effect of saliva. Adults who show early evidence of decay, known as incipient lesions, may also be candidates for sealants to halt the lesion’s progression before a traditional filling is required. A sealant can only be applied to a tooth surface that is completely free of existing decay or restorations.
What to Expect During the Application Process
The sealant application process is quick, painless, and typically completed during a single office visit without the need for anesthesia or drilling. The procedure begins with a thorough cleaning of the tooth surface to remove all plaque and debris from the pits and fissures, ensuring no bacteria are trapped beneath the sealant material.
The tooth is then isolated with cotton rolls or a rubber dam to keep the surface completely dry, which is important for effective bonding. A mild acidic solution, called an etchant, is applied briefly to microscopically roughen the enamel. This etching creates tiny pores, allowing the liquid sealant material to mechanically interlock with the tooth structure.
The tooth is rinsed and dried again before the liquid sealant resin is carefully painted onto the prepared surface, flowing into all the grooves and depressions. Finally, a specialized curing light is shone onto the material, chemically hardening the resin within seconds. The finished sealant forms a smooth, plastic shield that seals off the vulnerable areas of the tooth.
Longevity and Maintenance of Adult Sealants
Adult dental sealants are a long-lasting form of preventive care, typically remaining effective for five to ten years. The lifespan depends on factors such as the sealant material used, the location of the sealed tooth, and the patient’s daily habits. Resin-based sealants generally offer the longest duration of protection.
Maintenance involves regular dental check-ups, during which the dentist or hygienist inspects the sealants for chipping, wear, or partial loss of the material. If the sealant wears down or cracks, it can usually be repaired or reapplied in a simple procedure to maintain continuous protection. Patients should also avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, which can compromise the integrity of the seal.
The cost for dental sealants typically ranges from $40 to $70 per tooth without insurance. This makes them a cost-effective way to prevent more expensive restorative procedures like fillings or crowns. While insurance coverage is common for pediatric patients, it is often variable or limited for adults, so patients should confirm their specific plan benefits before the procedure. Investing in sealants provides a strong barrier against decay, potentially saving substantial costs and discomfort long term.