Dental Sealants
A Simple Way To Help Prevent Cavities
Dental sealants provide a protective barrier over molars, helping reduce cavity risk and support long-term oral health.
Home » Preventative Dentistry » Dental Sealants
When it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene, brushing and flossing regularly are crucial steps. However, there is another weapon in the fight against tooth decay that you may not be aware of — dental sealants. These thin coatings are designed to protect the chewing surfaces of your teeth from the bacteria and acids that can cause cavities.
What Are Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a preventive dental treatment designed to protect the chewing surfaces of your teeth from decay. They are a thin, plastic coating that is painted onto the grooves and pits of your teeth, forming a protective barrier against harmful bacteria and acids that can cause cavities.
Sealants are most commonly used on the molars and premolars. By providing an extra layer of protection, dental sealants can help reduce the risk of tooth decay and the need for more extensive dental treatments in the future.
What to Expect During a Dental Sealant Application
Expect A Cleaning
We clean the tooth thoroughly to remove plaque and debris.
Expect Drying
The tooth is dried so the sealant can bond properly.
Expect Etching
A special gel is applied to slightly roughen the surface.
Expect Application
The sealant is painted into the grooves and pits.
Expect Curing
A special light hardens the sealant, locking it in place.
Expect Comfort
The procedure is painless and completed in just a few minutes.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Sealants?
Cavity Prevention
Sealants provide a protective barrier against tooth decay.
Cost-Effective
Preventing cavities with sealants can reduce future dental costs.
Quick & Painless
Sealants are applied quickly and painlessly by a dentist.
Ideal for All Ages
Sealants are effective for both children and adults.
Long-Lasting Protection
Sealants can last several years with good oral care.
Reduces Future Treatment Needs
Sealants may help lower the need for fillings and other restorative treatments.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate for Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a preventive measure that is best suited for children and teenagers, but can also be beneficial for many adults.
While sealants can be applied to anyone, they are especially good candidates for those who:
- Are children and teenagers, as their permanent molars come in.
- Have deep grooves and fissures on their molars.
- Have a history of cavities or are at higher risk for tooth decay.
- Wear orthodontic appliances that make cleaning more difficult.
- Are adults with healthy teeth seeking additional protection against decay.
What Are The Statistics On Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a highly effective preventative measure that can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay and other types of tooth damage. Here are some statistics that highlight the impact of dental sealants:
- Reduced risk of decay: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dental sealants can reduce the risk of cavities in the permanent molars by up to 80%. In children aged 6-11 years old, sealants can reduce the risk of decay in these teeth by almost 40%.
- Cost-effective: The CDC estimates that for every dollar spent on dental sealants, between $8 and $38 can be saved in future dental treatment costs. This is because sealants can prevent the need for more invasive and expensive treatments such as fillings, crowns, and root canals.
- Long-lasting protection: When applied and maintained properly, dental sealants can provide protection against decay for up to 10 years. This means that a single application of sealants in childhood can help prevent decay and other types of tooth damage well into adulthood.
- Wide-reaching impact: Dental sealants are a simple and safe preventative measure that can benefit individuals of all ages. According to the American Dental Association, sealants can reduce the incidence of cavities by up to 80% in both children and adults.
Dental Sealants FAQs
No. While dental sealants are commonly recommended for children and teenagers, adults with healthy teeth and a higher risk of cavities may also benefit from this preventive treatment.
When applied and maintained properly, dental sealants can last up to 10 years.
No, dental sealants are painless and do not require any numbing or anesthesia.
Dental sealants are typically used on the molars, which are more prone to decay due to their deep grooves and fissures.
Yes. At our Reseda dental office we offer dental sealants to patients from Reseda and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Why Patients Love Dr. Alla Rapoport
Patients trust Dr. Alla Rapoport for gentle care, personalized treatment, and healthy smiles for the whole family.
EXCELLENT Based on 114 reviews Posted on Google Nailia AkhmedovaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m very happy that I found this office. Dr. Rapoport is a true professional with a very gentle touch and caring attitude. She explains everything clearly, works carefully, and makes patients feel comfortable and calm. I had been looking for “my” dentist for a long time, and I’m so glad I finally found one. Highly recommend!Posted on Google ליז פאביהTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I had a wonderful experience at this dental clinic. A huge thank you to Dr. Ella for seeing me without any issues and taking care of me in such an amazing, professional, and gentle way. She made me feel comfortable throughout the entire visit and provided excellent care. The entire clinic team is incredibly kind, welcoming, and professional. Everyone was so nice and helpful. Also, the prices are very, very good and fair. Highly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for quality dental care! 😊🦷✨Posted on Google david baazovTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alla and the rest of her crew is the best!)Posted on Google TheRbruin10Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alla Rappoport is the best Dentist I have ever had! She has been my dentist for several years. She was the one dentist who showed me how to brush properly, does my cleanings every 6 months, and I also got my teeth whitened with her. I trust her and feel at ease when she deals with my teeth. Strongly recommended!Posted on Google Игорь БогданTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional service and great care!Posted on Google Cristian OrozcoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The doctor and all staff are very kind and soft-spokenPosted on Google Tetiana LashkoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. excellent😎Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Take the first step toward a healthier smile by scheduling your visit with our friendly dental team today.