Are Dental Sealants Only for Kids?
Dental sealants have long been used to help keep a child’s permanent molars free from cavities. But did you know that adults can benefit from sealants too? At Santa Teresa Dental, we emphasize the importance of preventive care to help keep cavities at bay and maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. We invite you to visit our practice in Morgan Hill to experience the difference.
What Are Dental Sealants?
The chewing surfaces of your child’s permanent premolars and molars have pits and grooves that can trap plaque and food debris that even the best brushing can’t always remove. Dental sealants are thin protective coatings that we usually place over these surfaces to smooth them out and create a protective shield against cavity-causing bacteria, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
It’s important to keep in mind that while dental sealants can reduce your risk of cavities, they are not a substitute for regular brushing, flossing, fluoride treatments, or routine dental exams and cleanings.
When Is the Best Time to Have Dental Sealants Placed?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends placing sealants on permanent premolars and molars as soon as they emerge, which is typically around age 6 for the first set and age 12 for the second. Sealing these teeth right from the start is one of the best ways to keep them cavity-free.
But how about adolescents and adults? As long as your teeth are cavity-free, it’s never too late to place dental sealants. If you have deep grooves or are at a higher risk of developing cavities, you may benefit from this preventive measure. Our team at Santa Teresa Dental will help you determine whether sealants are ideal for safeguarding your smile.
What Is the Dental Sealant Process?
The dental sealant process is quick and pain-free. We will clean and dry the tooth, use a conditioning liquid to prepare the tooth surfaces, paint the sealant material onto the chewing surfaces of your teeth, and use a special curing light to harden it in place.
That’s it! Just a few short minutes and your teeth will have a strong protective seal that can significantly reduce the risk of decay. No numbing, no drilling, and no downtime. The quick and easy treatment can be completed during your routine dental exam and cleaning visit.
Are Dental Sealants Just for Back Teeth?
Dental sealants are mostly used for molars and premolars because their chewing surfaces have deep pits and grooves where food and plaque can be trapped, increasing the risk. But in some cases, we may recommend sealing other teeth that have deep grooves or crevices, including certain front teeth, if they are especially prone to decay and cavities.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Dental sealants can last 5 to 10 years or even longer with proper care. We recommend regular brushing, flossing, and visiting Santa Teresa Dental for regular exams and cleanings. We will check your sealants for wear and reapply them if necessary, so they continue providing maximum protection for your smile.
Dental Sealants Near Me in Morgan Hill, CA
You don’t have to be a child to benefit from the protection dental sealants offer. Adolescents and adults may also benefit from the quick, easy, and pain-free treatment to protect vulnerable teeth, helping keep cavities at bay. If you are ready to explore ways to give your smile an extra layer of protection, Dr. Ann, Dr. Huang, and their team at Santa Teresa Dental can help you determine the ideal preventive solution that best fits your needs. Call us at 408-782-6568 to schedule your appointment, or book one online today!