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3 Things to Consider When Getting Adult Sealants

November 22, 2016 By Sara Fossum

Did you know adults can get sealants, too? Consider these 3 things before you get the procedure.

91% of today’s adults have cavities, and the majority of these cavities occur in the back teeth. As children, we’re encouraged to get dental sealants once our back molars grow in. And sealants can reduce childhood tooth decay by more than 70%. While children are the traditional candidates for dental sealants, adults can benefit from the procedure too.

Before you think about getting or replacing sealants as an adult, consider these 3 things:

1. Tooth Health

Sealants can only be applied to teeth that don’t already have a cavity or a filling. Your dentist may recommend sealants if your healthy teeth are in a “high or moderate risk” area of your mouth.

If your teeth are healthy and “low risk,” sealants may not be necessary. Ask your dentist for his or her recommendation.

2. Cost

Many plans cover the cost of sealants for children but sometimes don’t extend those same benefits to adults. Check your current coverage to see if your plan is an exception.

But even without coverage, sealants are affordable and range from $30 to $40 a tooth. This is a small amount compared to getting a filling without insurance, which can cost up to $160 or more per tooth.

3. Cosmetic

Sealants can change the look of your molars, as the material can be clear, white or have a slight tint. But because sealants are placed on the back teeth, it is unlikely people would notice them.

Have questions about sealant coverage? Contact us today!

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