Preventive & Family
Dental Sealants
A thin protective coating that shields the grooves of back teeth from decay.
Dental Sealants photo
The chewing surfaces of your back teeth have deep grooves that are notoriously hard to keep clean, even with careful brushing. Dental sealants fill in those grooves with a thin protective coating, sealing out the food particles and bacteria that cause cavities.
Sealants are quick, painless to apply, and especially valuable for children and teens as their permanent molars come in.
Benefits
Why patients choose this
- Significantly reduces cavity risk in treated teeth
- Quick, painless, no drilling or anesthesia required
- Especially effective for kids' new permanent molars
- Can last several years with normal wear
Is This Right For You?
Signs to look for
- New permanent molars have recently erupted
- Deep grooves on chewing surfaces that are hard to clean
- A history of cavities on back teeth
- You want extra protection between regular checkups
What to Expect
Your visit, step by step
Cleaning and drying the tooth surface
Applying the sealant material into the grooves
Curing the sealant with a special light
A quick bite check to confirm comfort
Questions
Common questions about dental sealants
Sealants are most common for children and teens, but adults without existing fillings in their molars can benefit too.
Sealants typically last several years and are checked at routine visits, with reapplication if they wear down.