Dental Sealants

Highly effective in preventing decay on the biting surfaces of your chewing teeth, dental sealants are a simple procedure in which a tooth-colored acrylic “coating” is painted onto the tooth’s surface. This effectively “seals” the deep grooves as a barrier and protects enamel from plaque and acids.

Sealants protect the depressions and grooves of your teeth from food particles and plaque that brushing and flossing can’t reach.

Dental sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth, particularly molars and premolars. These back teeth tend to have deep grooves and pits that can easily trap food particles and bacteria, leading to tooth decay.

Sealants work by creating a smooth, hard surface over these grooves and pits, making it more difficult for plaque and bacteria to stick. This helps prevent cavities from forming and reduces the risk of developing other dental problems.

Application Process for Dental Sealants

Easy to apply, sealants take only a few minutes to seal each tooth. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and can last several years before a reapplication is needed.

The application process for sealants is quick and painless. The dentist will start by thoroughly cleaning the teeth that will receive the sealant. Next, an acid solution is applied to roughen up the surface of the teeth, creating a better bond with the sealant material. After rinsing and drying the teeth, the sealant material is painted on and hardened with a special light.

Benefits from dental sealants in the fight against tooth decay.

Adults can benefit from sealants if their back teeth are at risk for developing cavities. Studies have shown that sealants can reduce the risk of cavities by up to 80% in the first two years after application.

Once applied, sealants can last for several years before needing to be reapplied. However, it is important to continue practicing good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.