Can Adults Get Dental Sealants?
Yes, many adults can get dental sealants. They're often thought of as a kids' treatment, but a sealant can protect a healthy adult molar the same way it protects a child's.
At Gibson Dental, our Hilliard, OH family dentist team gets this question from parents who are booking sealants for their kids and wondering about their own teeth.
Here's what to know about dental sealants for adults.
What a Sealant Actually Does
The chewing surfaces of your back teeth are full of tiny pits and grooves. Some are so narrow that a single toothbrush bristle can't reach inside, so plaque and food settle there.
A sealant is a thin coating painted into those grooves. It hardens into a smooth shield that keeps food out and makes the surface easier to brush clean.
Why Sealants Aren't Just for Kids
Most sealant programs focus on children because molars are most at risk soon after they come in. Still, the American Dental Association says from them.
Age alone doesn't make a tooth a poor candidate. What matters more is whether the tooth's grooves are deep and still free of fillings or large cavities.
Which Adults Are Good Candidates
Sealants tend to make the most sense for adult teeth that are healthy but hard to keep clean. You may be a good fit if:
- Your molars have deep grooves that trap food
- You've never had fillings on those chewing surfaces
- You've had cavities in other teeth and want extra protection
- Your diet includes frequent snacks or sugary drinks
If that last point sounds familiar, these tips on cutting back on sugary drinks can help, too. Sealants work best alongside good habits, not in place of them.
How Sealants Are Placed
Placing a sealant is quick and doesn't require drilling. The tooth is cleaned and dried, then a mild gel roughens the surface so the sealant can bond.
After a rinse, the liquid sealant is painted into the grooves and hardened with a curing light. Cleveland Clinic notes it takes per tooth.
How Long Sealants Last
Sealants can last for several years, though they wear down with chewing over time. Cleveland Clinic puts the typical lifespan at up to about five years.
That's why we check them during your regular exams. A sealant that has chipped or worn thin can usually be repaired or reapplied at a routine visit.
When a Sealant Isn't the Right Fit
A sealant protects a healthy surface. It isn't meant to fix a tooth that already has a true cavity or a large filling.
If a tooth needs more than a sealant, Dr. Gibson will talk with you about other options. This overview of how crowns and fillings differ is a helpful starting point.
Pairing Sealants With Regular Visits
Sealants cover only the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. Brushing, flossing and professional cleanings still do the rest of the work.
Your checkups are also when we catch early changes before they turn into bigger problems. Here's why your regular dental visits matter beyond a polished smile.
You can also see the full list of our general dental services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does getting a dental sealant hurt?
No, placing a sealant is generally painless. There's no drilling and usually no numbing, because the sealant is simply painted onto the surface of the tooth and hardened with a light.
Cleveland Clinic describes the process as simple and painless, and you can usually eat and drink normally right after your appointment.
How does Dr. Gibson decide whether my teeth need sealants?
Dr. Gibson looks at the grooves on your back teeth during a comprehensive exam. Our office uses digital X-rays to monitor your teeth and spot early signs of decay.
From there, we'll talk through whether a sealant makes sense for any of your molars. We'll also set an exam schedule that fits your oral health needs.
Will my dental insurance cover sealants as an adult?
It depends on your plan, since adult sealant coverage varies. Gibson Dental welcomes most dental insurance plans and is in-network with Delta Dental Premier.
Our front-office team files claims electronically and will estimate what your plan should pay before treatment. We also offer CareCredit financing if you'd like to spread out the cost.
Can a sealant go over a filling or a cavity?
A sealant can't fix a true cavity, and a tooth with decay usually needs a filling first. Early, shallow changes in the enamel may be a different story.
The says sealants can help stop early lesions that haven't broken through the surface. Dr. Gibson will check each tooth before recommending one.
Do dental sealants contain BPA?
Some sealant materials can release a very small amount of BPA for a few hours after placement. Research reviewed by the American Dental Association found no health concern from that level of exposure.
For comparison, people encounter BPA every day from sources like receipts, dust and cosmetics. If you have concerns, ask us about the material we use.
Protect Your Smile With Sealants
Dental sealants for adults are a simple way to add protection to healthy back teeth. If you've wondered whether they're right for you, we're happy to take a look at your next visit.
Call Gibson Dental today at (614) 878-9562 or request an appointment online with our Hilliard, OH dentist.