Dental Sealants
Dr. Simmons or Dr. Reynolds may recommend dental sealants for your child as part of our preventative services.
What is a Dental Sealant?
The grooves and depressions in the chewing surfaces of back teeth are extremely difficult (if not impossible) to clean. Acids formed by bacteria and food sugars organize in these areas and break down tooth enamel, causing tooth decay.
A dental sealant is a plastic coating that is applied to the chewing surface of the tooth to fill and seal tiny grooves, pits and depressions. This creates a smooth surface that is easier to clean and helps prevent decay-causing bacteria from penetrating the enamel.
Dental sealants can be placed in a short appointment and the procedure is completely comfortable.
The tooth is prepared using an etch and rinse process and the plastic sealant material is painted on and hardened using a special light – no drills or anesthetic required!
Sealants play an important role in preventive dental care. We recommend that sealants are placed as a child's permanent teeth erupt. Adult molars and premolars can also be sealed, provided there are no existing restorations or signs of decay.
Sealants can last for many years if properly cared for. We will check your child’s sealants at regular checkup appointments and can re-apply the sealant material if necessary.
Prevention is the key to long term dental health – Contact Us to learn more about the oral health benefits of dental sealants for your child.
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