Your dentist mentioned sealants. They sound like something for children. But adults can get them too. Here is what they are and whether they are worth it.

Dental sealants are a thin protective coating painted onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They fill in the deep grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria love to hide. Think of it as a raincoat for your teeth — a barrier against decay.

Who Should Get Them?
Children and teenagers are the most common recipients. Their newly erupted permanent molars are vulnerable. The British Society of Paediatric Dentistry recommends sealants for children as soon as their adult molars come through — typically around age 6 and 12.

But adults can benefit too. If you have deep grooves in your back teeth and a history of decay in those areas, sealants may be a good option. They are not suitable if a tooth already has a filling or visible decay, but your dentist can assess whether your teeth are good candidates.

Do They Actually Work?
Yes. Research consistently shows sealants reduce the risk of decay in treated teeth by up to 80%. A 2023 Cochrane review found that fissure sealants effectively prevent cavities in children and adolescents. The key is proper placement and regular checking — sealants can wear down or chip over time and need monitoring.

The process is quick and painless. No drilling or injection required. Your dentist cleans the tooth, applies an etching gel to help the sealant bond, rinses it off, and paints on the sealant. A special blue light hardens it in seconds.

What to Expect
Sealants typically last several years before needing reapplication. They do not eliminate the need for brushing and flossing — they are one layer of protection, not a replacement for daily care. Your dentist will check them at each routine visit.

If you are wondering whether sealants make sense for you or your children, ask at your next appointment. They are a simple preventive measure that can save you from fillings down the road.

Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com

Meads Village Dental Practice