Dental Sealants Randolph MA

When it comes to preventing tooth decay, two treatments really stand out: fluoride and dental sealants. Dentists have found that fluoride treatments help protect the teeth from tooth decay, while dental sealants can offer additional protection.

What are dental sealants? 

Dental sealants are a layer of material that can be applied to the teeth as a liquid. After it hardens, it provides a barrier to keep bacteria away from the surfaces of treated teeth.

Dental Sealants:

  • Fast treatment
  • Painless, no shots or drilling required
  • Prevent up to 80% of cavities

Dental Sealants for Children

The chewing surfaces of children’s teeth are very vulnerable to cavities because of their many grooves and bumps. Another reason why their teeth, particularly the back molars, are susceptible to tooth decay is that children often find the rear teeth harder to reach and clean. Sealants can help to protect these vulnerable back molars. 

The sealants themselves consist of a plastic, resinous material that is colored to resemble the color of natural teeth.

Even though all premolars and molars have natural grooves and crevices, they may not be deep enough to require sealants. Your dentist or dental hygienist can examine your child’s teeth to advise you if a sealant would be helpful.

It is common for dental sealants to be applied as soon as children’s adult back teeth arrive. For premolars, this is around the age of six or seven. For remaining molars, the usual age is 14. However, as long as their teeth remain healthy, they can still be treated at an older age.

dental sealants | mom and daughter smiling

Dental Sealants for Adults

Although sealants are most commonly used for children, adults can also benefit from them. As long as the biting surface of the treated teeth is sound, sealants are a possibility. If you have some tooth decay in a tooth fissure, then you must get a dental filling first.

Dental Sealants Procedure 

Getting dental sealants is a non-invasive treatment that should only take a few minutes for each tooth. Your dentist or dental hygienist may apply the dental sealant. You may also receive a fluoride treatment simultaneously to protect and strengthen your teeth. 

If you are getting dental sealants, your treated teeth will be completely cleaned to remove any food debris and oral bacteria. They will then be dried.

Next, the surface of your tooth will be prepared using a special solution to increase the adhesion of the bond. Then your dental sealant is applied, and a special light is used to harden it.

Results

Your new dental sealants should last for many years. However, they are still subject to becoming worn down over time. During your routine dental exams, your dental team will be checking the condition of your dental sealants to see if a touch-up or replacement is needed. 

Schedule Your Appointment 

Do you feel that you or your child would benefit from receiving dental sealants to prevent cavities? If so, please contact our office today to schedule your dental sealants appointment.