Dental Sealants
Protecting teeth from decay
Since the 1950s, dental sealants have served as an effective preventative measure to help ensure the sound structure of teeth. This simple, painless procedure provides a protective barrier that can prevent up to 80% of cavities in the back teeth, where 9 out of 10 cavities occur.
How Dental Sealants Work
Sealants made of a thin plastic material provide a physical barrier between the grooved surfaces on the teeth and the bacteria that attack and cause cavities. The sealant fills in the deep grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of teeth, creating a smooth surface that's easier to clean and less likely to harbor bacteria.
Sealants differ from fluoride in that fluoride strengthens and remineralizes the smooth surfaces of teeth whereas sealants protect the grooved exterior. This complementary protection provides comprehensive cavity prevention.
The Sealant Application Process
The entire process takes just about one minute per tooth and involves no drilling or tooth alteration:
Why Choose Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a popular and painless alternative to more involved procedures. They save time and money by eliminating the need for future fillings and dental visits.
Who Benefits Most from Sealants?
Best Candidates
- ✔ Children ages 5-15 with newly erupted permanent teeth
- ✔ Teeth with deep pits and fissures
- ✔ Molars and premolars (back teeth)
- ✔ Teeth without existing decay or fillings
- ✔ Patients at high risk for cavities
- ✔ Adults with deep grooves in their teeth
Effectiveness Factors
Sealants are most effective in teeth that have recently erupted through the gumline and have not yet been exposed to decay. The ideal time for application is:
- ✔ First molars: ages 6-7
- ✔ Second molars: ages 11-14
- ✔ Premolars: ages 10-12
- ✔ Before any signs of decay appear
Maintenance and Care
Caring for teeth with sealants is simple and requires no special procedures:
Daily Care
- ✔ Continue regular brushing twice daily
- ✔ Floss daily around sealed teeth
- ✔ Use fluoride toothpaste for added protection
- ✔ Maintain regular oral hygiene routine
Professional Care
- ✔ Regular dental checkups every 6 months
- ✔ Professional monitoring of sealant condition
- ✔ Reapplication when sealants show wear
- ✔ Report any chips or unusual wear immediately
Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or other hard objects that could damage the sealants. With proper care, sealants can provide protection for many years.
Insurance and Cost Information
Dental sealants are a cost-effective preventive treatment. Many insurance plans cover sealants for children, typically at 80-100% coverage. The cost of sealants is significantly less than treating cavities with fillings, crowns, or other restorative procedures, making them an excellent investment in long-term oral health.
Protect Your Family's Teeth
Give your children the best protection against cavities with dental sealants. This simple, painless procedure can prevent years of dental problems and expense.
Schedule Your Sealant Appointment