At Your Expressions Family Dentistry, we understand children need extra care to help keep their teeth healthy and free of decay. That is why we offer dental sealants to our young patients to protect their smiles. Schedule an appoint with our friendly dentist today to learn more about dental sealants.

What are Dental Sealants?

Good dental hygiene and regular checkups are the best way to prevent cavities, but your child may still need some help. The chewing surfaces of your child’s back teeth are naturally covered in tiny depressions and grooves. Even with the best brushing and flossing habits, bacteria and food particles can hide in these vulnerable areas, causing cavities.

Dental sealants are thin protective plastic coatings used to protect your child’s teeth against cavities and decay. We apply them to their surface of your child’s teeth to fill in the depressions and grooves, sealing out cavity-causing bacteria. Our dentist recommends sealants for children over the age of six, once their permanent teeth come in to help protect them.

Do Dental Sealants Hurt?

Dental sealants are painless. The procedure is simple and can be performed in one visit. First, we will thoroughly clean and dry your child’s tooth. Next, we will apply an etching solution to prepare your child’s enamel to receive the sealant. We will then paint the sealant onto the tooth, where it will bond and cure. Once the sealant hardens, your child will be ready to resume normal eating and brushing habits.

Can Adults Get Dental Sealants?

Children and teenagers are the ideal candidates, as they are generally more prone to cavities than adults. However, some adults can benefit from receiving dental sealants. Ask our dentist to see if sealants are right for you.

How Long Do Sealants Last?

With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, your child’s sealant can last up to 10 years. Sealants can be easily replaced as necessary in cases of wearing or chipping.