What Are Dental Sealants?

A dental sealant is a plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars to protect them from tooth decay. These teeth have deep grooves that are hard to clean, and sealants prevent harmful bacteria from settling in these areas, keeping your teeth safe from decay.

Who Qualifies for Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are primarily recommended for children and teenagers, particularly once their molars and premolars have erupted above the gumline. This is the ideal time to apply sealants to safeguard their oral health. However, adults who are at risk of tooth decay due to poor oral hygiene, genetics, or other factors can also benefit from sealants.

Remember, while dental sealants are highly effective, they should complement good oral hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing regularly.

The Application of Dental Sealants

The process of applying dental sealants is quick and painless. First, we clean the teeth with a special paste and brush, followed by rinsing. Then, we apply an acidic solution to roughen the surface of the tooth, which helps the sealant adhere better. Once the surface is prepared, we apply the liquid sealant and harden it using a special UV light, turning the sealant into a durable plastic coating.

Sealants can protect your teeth from decay for up to 10 years, but we may recommend periodic follow-up visits to ensure their effectiveness.