PREVENTIVE CARE
Dental Sealants
Comprehensive Care for Every Smile
Dental Sealants
Our Dental Sealants Options
A simple, protective barrier that helps prevent cavities in hard-to-reach areas.
Even with excellent brushing and flossing habits, some areas of the mouth remain vulnerable to cavities -especially the deep grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of molars. At Glendale Dental Wellness, Dr. Ivan Chan offers dental sealants as a safe, effective way to shield these teeth from decay. Sealants are a trusted preventive solution for children, teens, and adults who want extra protection against cavities.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Sealants are thin, protective coatings made from tooth-colored resin. They are carefully applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, where toothbrush bristles often can\'t reach. By creating a smooth, protective barrier, sealants block out food particles and bacteria that can lead to decay.
Although often associated with children\'s dentistry, sealants are beneficial for patients of all ages. At Glendale Dental Wellness, we use high-quality, BPA-free resin to ensure your sealants are both safe and durable. Whether you\'re looking to protect your child\'s primary teeth or strengthen your own adult molars, our team is here to help.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
- Cavity Prevention: Sealants create a protective shield that stops food particles and bacteria from settling in tooth grooves, significantly reducing cavity risk.
- Cost-Effective: Sealants are an affordable preventive measure that can save you money on future restorative treatments like fillings or crowns.
- Non-Invasive: The application is quick, painless, and requires no drilling or anesthesia.
- Long-Lasting: When properly maintained, sealants can protect teeth for up to 10 years.
- Suitable for All Ages: While especially beneficial for children, sealants work well for teens and adults who want extra cavity protection.
The Sealant Application Process
The process is simple and quick:
- Cleaning: We thoroughly clean and dry the tooth surface to prepare it for the sealant.
- Conditioning: A mild acidic solution is gently applied to create a better bond between the tooth and sealant.
- Application: The resin-based sealant is carefully painted onto the grooves and pits of the tooth.
- Hardening: We use a special light to harden and set the sealant in place.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
While sealants are especially beneficial for children ages 6-12 (when permanent molars first erupt), they can be valuable for:
During your regular checkup, Dr. Chan can assess your teeth and recommend sealants if they\'re right for you.
- Teens: As young adults develop their oral care routines, sealants provide a safety net against cavities.
- Adults: If you\'ve never had sealants or want to protect newly exposed tooth surfaces, sealants are an excellent preventive option.
- People with Deep Grooves: Some individuals naturally have deeper pits and grooves on their molars, making them more cavity-prone.
- Those with Cavity History: If you\'ve had frequent cavities in the past, sealants can help break that cycle.
Maintaining Your Dental Sealants
Sealants are durable but do require proper care to maintain their effectiveness:
With proper care, your sealants will continue to provide protection for years to come.
- Brush Normally: Continue brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. The sealant is designed to withstand normal brushing.
- Regular Flossing: Floss daily to keep the areas between your teeth clean and healthy.
- Limit Hard Foods: Avoid chewing on hard candies, ice, or other very hard foods that could potentially damage the sealant.
- Regular Dental Visits: Visit Dr. Chan every six months so we can check the condition of your sealants and reapply them if needed.
Schedule Your Dental Sealant Appointment Today
Ready to protect your smile? Contact Glendale Dental Wellness today to schedule a consultation. Dr. Ivan Chan and our caring team are here to help you and your family maintain healthy, cavity-free teeth. Whether you\'re interested in sealants for yourself or your children, we\'ll work with you to create a personalized oral care plan that meets your unique needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental sealants safe?
Yes, dental sealants are very safe. They are made from tooth-colored resin that has been thoroughly tested and approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). At Glendale Dental Wellness, we use only high-quality, BPA-free materials to ensure the safety of our patients. The application process is non-invasive and painless, and sealants have been used successfully in dentistry for decades.
How long do dental sealants last?
With proper care and regular dental visits, sealants can last up to 10 years. However, they can sometimes wear away over time, especially on teeth used frequently for chewing. Dr. Chan will monitor the condition of your sealants during your regular checkups and can reapply them if necessary to maintain their protective benefits.
Will I feel the sealant on my tooth?
Most patients don't notice the sealant once it's applied. Since sealants are thin and are applied only to the chewing surfaces, they typically feel smooth and natural. If you do feel any rough spots or sensitivity, let Dr. Chan know, and he can make adjustments during your next visit.
Can sealants be applied to cavitated teeth?
Sealants are applied to healthy teeth as a preventive measure. If a tooth already has a cavity, it will need to be treated with a filling before a sealant can be applied. Dr. Chan will assess your teeth during your consultation and recommend the best course of action.
At what age should my child get sealants?
The ideal time to apply sealants is when the permanent molars first erupt, typically around age 6. Sealants can be applied to primary (baby) molars as well, though they're most commonly used on permanent teeth. Dr. Chan can evaluate your child's teeth and recommend the best timing based on their individual needs.
Does insurance cover dental sealants?
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of sealants, especially for children. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your coverage. Our team at Glendale Dental Wellness can also help you navigate insurance questions and discuss payment options.
