Sealants

What are Sealants?

Sealants are protective coverings that are applied to just the biting surfaces of your back teeth. They are used to form a barrier between all of the bacteria in your mouth and your tooth. This prevents cavities and deep staining that would otherwise occur if it were not in place. Sealants are a great protective option for adults and children alike.

Why are Sealants necessary?

You may want or even require sealants if you’re vulnerable to tooth decay and continually have cavities that need to be filled. Children are especially susceptible to tooth decay and will benefit from having sealants placed. Because sealants can last for about two to three years, they’re a long-term preventative measure you can take to protect your smile. The procedure is noninvasive, requires no anesthetic and is done in just minutes.

Who's a candidate for Sealants?

While sealants are often recommended for pediatric patients to prevent cavities and the need for subsequent fillings, they can be just as beneficial for adults. If you tend to get cavities every few years regardless of how well you brush your teeth, we may recommend having sealants applied to your back teeth. Sealants themselves harden to a clear finish, so they’re invisible to the naked eye.

What occurs during the procedure for Sealants?

We begin the procedure by cleaning and fully drying the back teeth. Sealants begin as a liquid that is brushed over the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. Once they’ve been applied, they are cured with a bright specialized dental light. This hardens the sealant to keep it in place. The sealant actually fills the small grooves of the back teeth to prevent both cavities and deep staining. Over time, they’ll wear away naturally and we can apply them again as needed. Considering how quick and simple the procedure is, sealants are ideal for most individuals coming into our practice.

If you or a loved one would benefit from sealants, we welcome you to call our office so that we can schedule a convenient appointment.