Preventive
Sealants
A thin protective coating over the deep grooves of back teeth that blocks out decay-causing bacteria.
What are Sealants?
A dental sealant is a thin, protective coating painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth — the molars and premolars — where deep grooves trap food and bacteria. The sealant fills in these grooves so plaque cannot settle, preventing the majority of cavities from forming in these hard-to-clean areas.
Why would Sealants be needed?
The grooves on the chewing surfaces of molars are narrower than a single toothbrush bristle, so they cannot be cleaned effectively once food and bacteria settle in. Sealants create a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that blocks out decay, protecting teeth for years.
Who is a candidate for Sealants?
Sealants are most often placed on children and teens as soon as their permanent molars come in, but adults with deep, decay-free grooves can benefit too. We evaluate each tooth to decide whether a sealant is appropriate.
What happens during the procedure?
We clean and dry the tooth, then apply a mild solution that roughens the surface so the sealant bonds. The liquid sealant is painted on and cured with a bright light to harden it. The whole process is painless and takes only a few minutes per tooth, with no numbing required.
Interested in Sealants?
Call (954) 572-2750 or request an appointment online.