Trying to keep a teenager’s teeth healthy – yeah, it’s not always a walk in the park. Teens are busy, they love their snacks, and let’s face it, brushing and flossing sometimes fall to the bottom of their to-do list. However, there’s a straightforward solution: dental sealants. They’re a simple way to help protect your teen’s teeth, especially those tricky back molars where cavities love to hide.

If you’re a parent who wants your teen to keep their smile bright and strong, consider sealants.

So, what are dental sealants? 

Picture a thin, protective layer that the dentist applies directly to the chewing surface of the back teeth. These back teeth have numerous grooves and pits where debris can become trapped. Sealants smooth things out, sealing off those little hiding spots so food and bacteria can’t settle in.

Once the dentist applies the sealant, it bonds with the enamel and forms a protective shield. This shield blocks the substances that cause cavities from entering those hard-to-clean grooves. The numbers are convincing – sealants can reduce the risk of cavities by up to 80%. That’s huge, especially while your teen’s teeth are still growing in and need all the help they can get.

Now, why do teens need sealants? Because let’s be real, their eating habits and dental routines aren’t always the best. Busy schedules, junk food, forgetting to brush or floss—it all adds up. Sealants give them an extra layer of protection when they need it most.

Here’s what makes sealants great:

• They prevent cavities. Sealants prevent food and bacteria from entering the deep grooves in the molars.
• They’re quick and painless to apply – no needles or drilling, just a few minutes in the dentist’s chair.
• They save money. Paying for sealants now can help you avoid bigger dental bills later.
• They last. With proper care, sealants can last up to 10 years, protecting those teeth through the toughest, cavity-prone years.

Getting sealants is easy. Usually, it’s all done in one visit. The dentist cleans the teeth, dries them, applies a gel to prepare the surface, and then brushes on the sealant. After that, they use a light to harden it. That’s it – your teen can get right back to their day. No downtime, no fuss.

So, how do dental sealants help your teen’s teeth in the long run? Sealants add that little bit of extra protection, keeping cavities at bay while your teen’s still figuring out their own dental habits. They make it easier to maintain healthy teeth now, and those good habits can last well into adulthood.

Are sealants right for your teen? 

Dentists usually recommend them for kids and teens, especially if their molars have deep grooves. The best time to get them is as soon as those adult molars come in—around ages 6 and 12. Adults can also get sealants, as long as their molars are still cavity-free.

If your teen hasn’t tried sealants yet, it’s probably time to check in with your Bellevue dentist and see what they recommend. Sealants are an easy, affordable way to help keep your teen’s teeth strong and healthy. Book an appointment and give your teen’s smile a little extra support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on your teen’s oral hygiene habits and the wear on the teeth. Regular checkups will ensure the sealants remain intact.

2. Are dental sealants safe for teenagers?
Yes, dental sealants are entirely safe. They are made from a tooth-colored resin that is BPA-free, and the application process is non-invasive.

3. Can dental sealants prevent all types of cavities?
While dental sealants are highly effective at preventing cavities on the chewing surfaces of molars, it’s still essential for your teen to maintain proper oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly.

4. Can dental sealants be reapplied?
Yes, if a sealant becomes chipped or worn over time, your Bellevue dentist can reapply it. Regular dental checkups ensure your teen’s sealants remain effective.