Why Dental Sealants Are Important

• Prevent Cavities: Sealants create a protective barrier against bacteria and food particles.
• Long-Lasting Protection: With proper care, sealants can last several years.
• Painless Application: The procedure is quick, non-invasive, and pain-free.
• Cost-Effective: Sealants can save you money in the long run by preventing the need for more extensive dental treatments.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These sealants quickly bond into the depressions and grooves of the teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel.

Our Dental Sealant Application Process

1. Teeth Cleaning
   • Before applying the sealant, we thoroughly clean the teeth to remove any plaque and food particles. This ensures a clean surface for the sealant to adhere to.
2. Tooth Preparation
   • The teeth are then dried, and an acidic solution is applied to the chewing surfaces to roughen them up. This helps the sealant bond to the teeth.
3. Sealant Application
   • The sealant material is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. Sometimes a special curing light is used to help the sealant harden quickly.
4. Evaluation
   • Once the sealant has hardened, we check to ensure it covers the grooves and pits completely and make any necessary adjustments.

Benefits of Dental Sealants

• Effective Decay Prevention: Sealants are highly effective at preventing cavities in the grooves and pits of molars and premolars.
• Simple and Quick Procedure: The application is straightforward, taking only a few minutes per tooth.
• Safe for All Ages: While commonly applied to children’s teeth, sealants are also beneficial for adults prone to cavities.
• Invisible Protection: Sealants are clear or tooth-colored, making them virtually invisible.

Who Should Get Dental Sealants?

Sealants are most beneficial for children and teenagers, as their newly erupted permanent teeth are most susceptible to cavities. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.

Post-Application Care

• Regular Brushing and Flossing: Continue brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to maintain overall oral health.
• Routine Dental Checkups: Regular checkups allow us to monitor the condition of your sealants and reapply them if necessary.
• Healthy Diet: Limit sugary and acidic foods that can contribute to decay.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants

• How long do dental sealants last?

  Dental sealants can last several years with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. Our team will monitor your sealants during routine visits and reapply them as needed.

• Are dental sealants safe?

  Yes, dental sealants are safe. They are made from a biocompatible plastic material and are widely used in dental practices to prevent cavities.

• Do sealants affect how my teeth feel?

  Sealants are thin and conform to the natural shape of your teeth, so you should not feel any difference in your bite or chewing.

• Can sealants be applied to teeth with cavities?

  Sealants are most effective on teeth without decay. If you already have cavities, we will address those with fillings or other treatments before considering sealants.

• Will my insurance cover dental sealants?

  Many dental insurance plans cover sealants, particularly for children and teenagers. Check with your provider for specific coverage details.

Schedule Your Dental Sealant Appointment Today

Protect your teeth from cavities with our professional dental sealant services at Pearly Smiles in Mesa, AZ. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and learn more about how sealants can help maintain your oral health.