What are dental sealants, and how do they protect teeth?
Sealants are thin protective coatings that we place over the deep grooves of your back teeth. Those little grooves are great places for food and bacteria to hide, and sometimes even a toothbrush can't get all the way into them. A sealant basically covers these hiding spots and makes the tooth easier to keep clean.
Why do dentists recommend sealants for children and teens?
When permanent molars first come in, they can have really deep grooves, and kids aren't exactly the world's most thorough brushers. Shocking, I know. Sealants give these teeth an extra layer of protection during the years when they may be particularly vulnerable to cavities.
What are the benefits of dental sealants for kids?
The biggest benefit is prevention. They're quick, don't typically require numbing or drilling, and can reduce the risk of cavities developing in those grooves. Preventing a cavity is always easier than treating one.
Can adults get dental sealants?
Absolutely. We tend to talk about them more with kids because that's when the permanent molars are coming in, but adults with teeth that have deep grooves or who are particularly cavity-prone may benefit from sealants, too.
Are dental sealants safe for kids and adults?
Dental sealants have been used for decades and are considered safe for both kids and adults. They're a conservative way of helping protect teeth that may be vulnerable to cavities.
How do dental sealants help reduce cavity risk?
Think of a sealant almost like putting a raincoat over the grooves of the teeth. We flow a very thin material into those pits and grooves and harden it. Now food and bacteria have fewer places to hide, and your toothbrush has a much easier job.
Which teeth usually need dental sealants?
Usually the permanent molars and sometimes premolars, the back teeth that do most of our chewing. But I don't automatically seal every tooth. We look at how deep the grooves are, the patient's cavity risk, and whether that particular tooth would actually benefit.
What should patients expect during a dental sealant appointment?
This is one of the easiest things we do in dentistry. We clean the tooth, prepare the surface, keep it nice and dry, paint the sealant into the grooves, and use a special light to harden it. It typically doesn't require shots or drilling, which is especially nice when we're treating kids.
How long does it take for dental sealants to harden?
Basically immediately. We use a curing light that hardens the material in seconds. Once we're finished and check your bite, the sealant is set.
Can dental sealants be placed over small cavities?
This depends on what we're actually seeing. Sealants are primarily meant to prevent cavities. In certain situations, very early changes in the enamel may be monitored or sealed, but if there's actually a cavity that's broken down the tooth structure, we generally need to remove the decay and restore the tooth instead.
What should patients avoid after getting dental sealants?
Not much. Once we've cured the sealant, it's already hard, and you can generally eat and drink normally. I would still avoid making a habit of chewing ice or really hard things, not just for your sealants, but because your teeth won't be sending you a thank-you card, either.
How long do dental sealants last?
They can last for several years, but they're not necessarily permanent. That's why we check them during your regular dental visits. If part of a sealant wears down or comes off, we can evaluate it and repair or replace it when needed.
How much do dental sealants cost?
Cost varies depending on the office, how many teeth we're treating, and your insurance coverage. Some dental plans provide coverage for sealants, particularly for children, but benefits vary. Your dental office can check your individual coverage.
Are dental sealants worth it for patients prone to cavities?
Definitely worth discussing. If someone has deep grooves, a history of cavities, or other risk factors, sealants can provide an additional conservative layer of protection. They're not a replacement for brushing, flossing, and fluoride, but they're a great teammate.
Can dental sealants be removed or replaced?
If a sealant becomes worn, chipped, or isn't doing its job anymore, we can evaluate it and repair or replace it when necessary. That's one reason we look at them during routine checkups.
My favorite dental treatment is the one we can prevent you from needing in the first place. Sealants are quick and can be a great way to help protect cavity-prone teeth. If you're wondering whether you or your child would benefit from them, ask us at your next visit. We're happy to take a look.
If you're searching for quality dental care, we're here to help. Call (551) 383-4441 or email [email protected] to schedule your visit. Our team is committed to keeping your smile healthy.