At Forest Trail Dental Care in Temple, TX, we are committed to providing our patients with comprehensive, high-quality dental services designed to protect and enhance oral health for individuals of all ages. One of the key preventative treatments we offer is dental sealants—a simple yet effective solution to guard against tooth decay and cavities, particularly in areas of the mouth that are challenging to reach with regular brushing and flossing.
Understanding Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a protective coating made from a plastic resin that adheres to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—primarily the molars and premolars. These areas are most susceptible to decay due to the presence of grooves and depressions that can trap food particles and plaque. The sealant material works by filling in these grooves, creating a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that significantly reduces the risk of cavities.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sealants?
While dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers—as their permanent molars and premolars emerge, making them more vulnerable to decay—adults with no fillings or decay in their molars can also benefit from this preventative measure. The American Dental Association (ADA) supports the use of dental sealants on the permanent molars of children and adolescents, as well as for adults at risk for cavities.