Dental sealants from our Grand Rapids dentist are a simple, effective way to shield teeth from cavities. This thin, protective coating is applied to the chewing surfaces of back molars, where decay is most likely to form. Quick, painless, and long-lasting, help block out bacteria and food particles, reducing the risk of cavities—especially for kids and teens.
Learn more about the application of dental sealants and why it’s beneficial below.
Prime Candidates for Dental Sealants
Sealants are a great preventive option for anyone looking to protect their teeth from cavities, but as mentioned above, they are particularly beneficial for children and teenagers. Since younger patients are more prone to cavities, tooth sealants provide an added layer of protection during these cavity-prone years.
Generally, it’s recommended that children have sealants applied to their permanent molars and premolars as soon as they come in. This typically happens between the ages of 6 and 14. By sealing these teeth early, we can help prevent decay before it starts, ensuring long-term oral health. In some cases, sealants may also be appropriate for baby teeth if a child is at higher risk of cavities. Deciding to apply sealants to their primary teeth can help keep them healthier until they naturally fall out.
While sealants are most commonly used for younger patients, adults who are more prone to cavities due to the natural grooves and pits in their teeth can also benefit from them. If you have a history of frequent cavities, dental sealants may be a great preventive solution.
Dental Sealant Procedure
The process of applying dental sealants is fast, pain-free, and suitable for all ages. The entire procedure takes just a few minutes per tooth and involves the following simple steps:
- Cleaning the Tooth – The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to ensure no plaque, food particles, or bacteria are trapped under the sealant.
- Drying and Preparing the Surface – The tooth is dried, and a special etching solution is applied to roughen the surface slightly. This helps the sealant bond effectively to the tooth.
- Rinsing and Drying Again – The solution is rinsed off, and the tooth is dried once more to prepare for the sealant application.
- Applying the Sealant – The liquid sealant is carefully painted onto the chewing surface of the tooth, filling in the deep grooves where cavities often form.
- Curing the Sealant – A special light is used to harden the sealant, creating a strong, protective barrier against decay.
Once the sealant is in place, it can last for several years with proper oral care, providing long-lasting protection against cavities. If you’d like to move forward with the procedure either for yourself or your child, we can arrange to have sealants applied after a professional teeth cleaning.
