Same Day, Evening, Weekend and Emergency Appointments Avaliable
_edited.png)
Sealants
A dental sealant is a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to help block plaque and bacteria. It creates a smooth barrier over pits and grooves, reducing the risk of decay in high-risk areas. Sealants are fast to place, non-invasive, and can provide long-lasting protection with routine check-ups.
Benefits: Extra Protection Against Cavities
Helps prevent cavities in hard-to-clean areas: Molars have deep grooves where food and bacteria can easily get trapped. Sealants cover these grooves and make the surface easier to keep clean. This can significantly reduce cavity risk in the back teeth.
Quick, painless, and non-invasive: Sealants don’t require drilling or freezing in most cases. The tooth is cleaned, the sealant is applied, and it hardens in place. Many patients are surprised by how easy the appointment feels.
Great for kids, teens, and cavity-prone adults: Sealants are commonly recommended as soon as adult molars come in. They’re also helpful for adults who frequently get cavities or have deep grooves in their teeth. It’s a proactive step that supports long-term oral health.
Cost-effective prevention: Preventing a cavity is typically simpler and less expensive than treating one. Sealants can help you avoid fillings, sensitivity, and future dental repairs. It’s a small investment that can save time and money over the years.
Long-lasting protection with regular care: Sealants can last for several years and continue working even as your teeth go through daily chewing. During routine dental check-ups, we’ll monitor them and repair or reapply if needed. With good brushing and consistent visits, sealants stay effective.
Process: What to Expect When Getting Sealants
Exam and recommendation: We’ll start by examining the teeth to see if sealants are a good fit, focusing on molars and premolars. We check for deep grooves and ensure there’s no decay that needs treatment first. Then we’ll explain which teeth we recommend sealing and why.
Cleaning the tooth surface: The tooth is gently cleaned to remove plaque and debris from the chewing surface. This helps the sealant bond properly and last longer. We’ll keep the process comfortable and quick from the start.
Preparing the enamel for bonding: A safe conditioning gel is applied briefly to help the sealant adhere to the tooth. This step creates a stronger bond without removing tooth structure. The tooth is then rinsed and dried thoroughly.
Applying the sealant: The sealant material is painted onto the grooves of the tooth where cavities often begin. It flows into the pits and fissures to create a smooth barrier. We carefully place it so it feels natural when you bite.
Hardening and bite check: A special light may be used to harden the sealant in seconds. Once set, we check your bite to ensure it feels comfortable and balanced. If anything feels high, we adjust it right away.
Aftercare and follow-up: You can eat and drink normally after sealants are placed. At regular cleanings and check-ups, we’ll inspect the sealants to ensure they remain intact. If a sealant chips or wears down, we can repair it easily.
