Sealants Specialist

What are sealants?

Sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the crowns of your teeth. Usually, it’s painted onto your back molars and premolars to protect the chewing surfaces, which are most vulnerable to decay. The sealant bonds quickly into the deepest recessions and grooves of your teeth.

Does the procedure hurt?

The procedure is painless and is finished in minutes. You might have a slightly off taste in your mouth right after the sealants are applied. You don’t need local anesthesia for sealants to be applied.

Who is a candidate for sealants?

Adults without decay or fillings can benefit from sealants. But, children and teens receive them most often because they’re at the greatest risk for decay in their premolars and molars. Sealants offer great protection in the cavity-prone years of ages six to 14.

Some children may benefit from having sealants placed on their baby teeth, especially if they have particularly deep grooves. Protecting baby teeth keeps your child’s mouth structure in place and supports optimal development of adult teeth. Sealants can help prevent the premature loss of baby teeth due to decay.

I brush regularly, so do I really need sealants?

Brushing and flossing are essential hygiene habits. Having sealants doesn’t replace the need cleaning your teeth daily or regular dental visits. However, brushing and flossing can’t remove all the particles of food and bacteria in deep grooves of your teeth. Sealants add another layer of protection against decay.

How long will a sealant protect my teeth?

Sealants can last up to 10 years but are vulnerable to chipping. The dentists at Lee Dental check them at your regular visits and can touch them up as needed.

What is the process of getting a sealant like?

The teeth to receive the sealant are thoroughly cleaned and dried. An acid solution is then applied to encourage adherence of the sealant. Once again, the tooth is rinsed and dried. The sealant is painted on, and it hardens within just a minute or two. The dentist often shines a special curing light on the sealed teeth during drying to speed up the process.