7449 East Osborn Road #4 Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
What Are Dental Sealants
Sealants provide protection for your teeth by keeping plaque from forming in the tiny crevices of the chewing surfaces. Our team often recommends sealants for children because kids’ teeth have small depressions in them that make them harder to properly clean through brushing alone. Sealants coat these small indentations, forming a protective layer against plaque and decay.
Why Are Sealants Important
Dental sealants are an effective preventative measure against cavities and tooth decay that we offer here at Dentistry of Old Town Scottsdale. They can be especially helpful if your child has a weakness for sweets and/or a hard time sticking to good dental cleaning habits. Sealants have been shown to reduce cavities by up to 80 percent, and can last up to 10 years.
Are Dental Sealants Only for Children
While dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers, whose newly erupted permanent molars are most vulnerable to decay, adults can benefit from them too. You may be a good candidate for sealants if:
- You have deep grooves or pits in your back teeth that are difficult to clean effectively with a toothbrush
- You have a history of cavities or are considered at higher than average risk for tooth decay
- You do not yet have any fillings or significant decay in the teeth being treated
- You want a simple, non-invasive way to add an extra layer of protection to your smile
Sealants are not a replacement for brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, but they work exceptionally well as part of a broader preventive care routine. Dr. Brittain will let you know during your next appointment whether sealants are a good fit for you or your child.
How We Can Help: We Can Easily Apply Sealants During Your Next Visit
The process of applying sealants is short, easy, and does not require drilling or the removal of any tooth structure. After the teeth are cleaned, a special gel is placed on the chewing surfaces for a few seconds. Each tooth is then washed and dried before the sealant is painted on. Typically, we also shine a special curing light on the tooth to help harden the sealant.
If you have questions about dental sealants for yourself, your child, or other loved one, don’t hesitate to ask. Call us today at 480-719-6994 and together we can determine the best solution for your and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are dental sealants, and how do they work?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to block out bacteria and food particles, helping prevent cavities.Who should get dental sealants?
Sealants are commonly recommended for children and teens, but adults with deep grooves in their teeth can also benefit from added cavity protection.How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants can last up to 5–10 years with proper care, though dentists check them regularly and may reapply if needed.Are dental sealants safe?
Yes, sealants are safe and widely used in the U.S. as a preventive treatment to reduce the risk of tooth decay.Does dental insurance cover dental sealants?
Many U.S. dental insurance plans cover sealants for children and teens, especially as part of preventive care benefits.At what age should children get dental sealants?
Most kids in the U.S. benefit from sealants between the ages of 6 and 12, right after their permanent molars come in.