What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are thin protective coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, usually the molars. They help block food particles, plaque, and bacteria from settling into the deep grooves of the teeth, which can lower the risk of cavities.

Who should get dental sealants?

Dental sealants are often recommended for children and teens because their molars can be more vulnerable to decay, but some adults may benefit from them as well. If the back teeth have deep grooves and are more likely to trap food and bacteria, sealants may be a helpful preventive treatment.

Dental Sealants
in Searcy, AR

Q: How long do dental sealants last?

Dental sealants can last for several years with proper care and regular dental visits. During routine checkups, the dentist can examine the sealants to make sure they are still protecting the teeth and recommend repair or replacement if needed.

Dental sealants act as invisible barriers for molars, helping to protect them from collecting bacteria and developing decay. Neaville Family Dentistry offers dental sealants as an additional preventive treatment option for patients who are elementary-age and older to prevent cavities and keep our patients’ smiles in tip-top shape.

Interested in learning more and scheduling with our team? Contact Neaville Family Dentistry today!

The Dental Sealant Process

Step 1: Dental Cleaning and Examination

Before applying sealants, your hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth and examine them for any decay or damage. Sealants are only applied to healthy teeth, so this step ensures the surface is ready.

Step 2: Tooth Preparation

The teeth receiving sealants are gently etched or treated with a mild solution to create a slightly rough surface. This helps the sealant adhere securely to the enamel.

Step 3: Applying the Sealant

The liquid sealant material is carefully painted onto the grooves and pits of each tooth. The material flows into the crevices to create a protective barrier against bacteria and plaque.

Step 4: Curing the Sealant

A special curing light is then used to harden the sealant, usually in just a few seconds. Once hardened, the sealant forms a durable, smooth coating over the tooth.

Step 5: Checking the Bite

Our team will check your bite to make sure the sealant doesn’t interfere with chewing. Any adjustments are made to ensure comfort and proper alignment.

Step 6: Follow-Up Care

Sealants can last several years, but our team will monitor them during regular checkups. Maintaining good oral hygiene helps maximize their protective benefits.

Are dental sealants just for children?

Dental sealants are especially common for children and teenagers because newly erupted molars are more vulnerable to cavities, but some adults can benefit from them too. If an adult has deep grooves in their molars and is especially cavity-prone, sealants may be an excellent, additional preventive measure for them.

Are dental sealants noticeable?

Dental sealants are only noticeable to the trained eye, and they do not change the patient’s bite or feel any different on the teeth. To anyone else, they are practically invisible. In fact, some patients forget that they even have sealants!

How long do dental sealants last?

Dental sealants can last for several years and are checked during routine dental visits. With good home care and regular exams, they can continue protecting the teeth over time, and they can be repaired or replaced if they begin to wear down.

Dental Sealants in Searcy, AR