Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars) to prevent cavities. They seal the grooves and pits in the teeth, making it harder for plaque and food to accumulate in these areas.

Sealants act as a barrier to protect tooth enamel from acids and bacteria. By covering the deep grooves and pits in molars, they reduce the chances of plaque buildup and tooth decay.

Sealants are commonly recommended for children and teenagers because their molars and premolars are more prone to decay. However, adults can also benefit from sealants if their teeth have deep grooves and no decay or fillings.

Sealants can last up to 10 years with proper care, though they should be checked regularly during dental check-ups. Over time, they can wear down or chip and may need reapplication.

The process is quick and painless. The dentist cleans the tooth, applies a special gel to roughen the surface, rinses the gel off, and then paints the sealant material onto the tooth. The sealant is then hardened with a special light.

No, applying sealants is a painless procedure. It does not involve drilling or anesthesia since it is a topical application of a protective coating.

Applying sealants is a quick procedure, usually taking only a few minutes per tooth. The entire process for all molars can be completed in one short dental visit.

Sealants are thin and should not affect your bite. You might feel a slight difference in texture initially, but most people adjust quickly and don’t notice them after a short time.

No, sealants and fluoride work together to protect teeth. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of molars, while fluoride strengthens the entire tooth, including areas not covered by the sealant.

Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of the molars, where cavities are most common, but they do not protect the entire tooth. Good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and fluoride treatments, is still essential for overall cavity prevention.

Yes, dental sealants are safe. The materials used for sealants have been extensively studied and shown to be effective in preventing decay without posing any health risks.

Many dental insurance plans cover sealants for children and teenagers. Coverage for adults may vary. Check with our front desk team to understand your specific benefits.

Sealants are typically applied to teeth that are free of decay. However, if the decay is very minor, we may recommend applying sealants over it to prevent further damage.

If a sealant wears off, the tooth is no longer protected in that area. We can reapply the sealant during a regular check-up if needed. Regular visits help ensure that sealants are maintained properly.

Yes, you can eat and drink immediately after getting sealants. There are no restrictions after the procedure, although it's advisable to avoid chewing hard objects like ice or hard candy to prevent damaging the sealants.

You should continue to practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly. Avoiding sticky, hard foods will also help preserve the sealants.

Sealants are usually clear, white, or slightly tinted, so they blend in with the natural color of your teeth and are not noticeable when you talk or smile.