Our goal is for our patients to require the least amount of dental treatment possible. Children who enter adulthood with the fewest restored teeth generally have the lowest risk of future problems.
Sealants can dramatically reduce the number of cavities a child might develop throughout their childhood. On the chewing surface of molars, deep grooves run into the center of the teeth. Under a microscope, these crevices might look like a deep canyon. In reality, most of them are narrower than a single toothbrush bristle but that is still wide enough for bacteria to hide. It’s easy to see how cavities can form in such a perfect hideout.
If the grooves in permanent molars are sealed at a young age, the risk of decay decreases dramatically. Fortunately, this procedure can be done quickly and without any discomfort or anesthetic. The sealant material creates a smooth surface, filling in the grooves and making the biting surface more manageable for little hands to keep clean. A resin material is flowed over the grooves and is sealed quickly with a blue curing light. Within a few minutes, your child’s teeth are protected against cavities.
Sealants only last a few years and may need to be repaired or replaced periodically. But research confirms a 90% reduction in tooth decay along the chewing surface in sealed molars. This cost-effective, simple step may help your child enter adulthood with fewer fillings.
Dental Sealants FAQs
Dental sealants are highly effective in preventing cavities, especially on the chewing surfaces of back teeth where food and bacteria often get trapped. Studies show that sealants can reduce the risk of decay by up to 80% in molars. They create a protective barrier that keeps plaque and acids away from vulnerable grooves and pits, making it much easier to maintain healthy teeth.
Dental sealants are very safe for children, and serious risks are rare. The most common issues are minor, such as temporary rough spots on the teeth or a sealant that may wear down or chip over time. In some cases, a sealant might not fully cover the tooth, which can reduce its effectiveness.
At Lee Dental Centers, we carefully apply dental sealants as part of preventive care. Our team monitors the sealants during regular visits to ensure they remain intact and continue doing their job!
Dental sealants typically last between 5 and 10 years, though their lifespan can vary depending on your chewing habits, oral hygiene, and diet. Sealants may wear down over time, chip, or partially come off which is why regular dental checkups are important to ensure they remain effective. If any sealant shows signs of wear, we can repair or replace it to continue protecting your teeth from cavities.
No, dental sealants do not hurt. The application is completely painless and does not require drilling or anesthesia. The process usually takes just a few minutes per tooth and involves cleaning the tooth, applying a special coating, and curing it with a light. Our dental sealants are applied quickly and comfortably, making them a safe and effective way for children and adults to prevent cavities without any discomfort.
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