Dental Sealants
At Southeastern Dental Care, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles through comprehensive preventive care. One of the most effective tools we use in this mission is dental sealants. This simple, non-invasive procedure provides an extra layer of protection for teeth, helping to prevent cavities and maintain strong, healthy teeth for years to come.
We’re proud to offer dental sealants to our valued patients in Lakeville and surrounding Massachusetts, including Raynham, Middleboro, Taunton, Fairhaven, New Bedford, and Freetown. Please call (508) 947-5717 today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Bui and our expert dental team.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (molars and premolars). These areas are prone to cavities because of the deep grooves and pits that can trap food and bacteria. The sealants act as a barrier, protecting these vulnerable areas by sealing out plaque and food particles that lead to decay.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a powerful preventive tool that offers several key benefits:
- Cavity Prevention: Sealants block out food and bacteria, reducing the risk of tooth decay in hard-to-reach areas.
- Quick and Painless: The application process is fast, easy, and completely painless, making it an ideal option for children and adults alike.
- Long-Lasting Protection: Sealants can provide protection for up to 10 years with proper care, though regular dental visits are important to ensure they are intact and still offering protection.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers, whose molars are more susceptible to cavities.
Additionally, sealants can be applied to baby teeth in younger children. Baby teeth are essential for maintaining the spacing and alignment of permanent teeth, so protecting them from decay is crucial.
How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
The process of applying dental sealants is quick and comfortable. Here’s what you can expect:
- Thorough Cleaning: The teeth are thoroughly cleaned to remove any plaque or debris.
- Tooth Preparation: A special solution is applied to the tooth’s surface to help the sealant bond properly.
- Sealant Application: The sealant is carefully painted onto the tooth’s chewing surface, filling in the grooves and pits.
- Curing: A special light is used to harden the sealant, creating a durable protective shield.
Once the sealant has hardened, your tooth is protected, and you can return to your normal activities immediately.
Why Choose Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect teeth from cavities, particularly for children and teens. With just a single application, you can safeguard your teeth against decay for many years, ensuring a healthy smile.
FAQs About Dental Sealants
Q: How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants can last 5-10 years with proper care. Some sealants may last even longer, depending on your oral hygiene habits and the wear patterns of your teeth.
Q: Is the sealant application process painful?
Not at all! Applying dental sealants is quick, comfortable, and completely painless. No drilling or anesthesia is needed. The tooth is simply cleaned, prepared with a mild acid solution, rinsed, dried, and then the sealant is painted on and hardened with a special light. The entire process takes just a few minutes per tooth.
Q: Do sealants replace the need for good oral hygiene?
No, sealants are a preventive tool that works alongside regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups—not a replacement for them.
Q: Are dental sealants covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover sealants for children and teenagers, typically up to age 18. Coverage for adults varies by plan. Sealants are considered a preventive treatment, so they’re often covered at a high percentage (usually 80-100%) when applied to permanent molars. We’ll help verify your coverage before treatment.
Schedule Your Dental Sealant Appointment Today
Protect your family’s smiles with dental sealants from Southeastern Dental Care in Lakeville. Whether you’re considering sealants for your child or yourself, we are here to help you make the best choices for your oral health. Our team is committed to providing personalized, high-quality care that fits your unique needs. Call (508) 947-5717 today and let’s schedule your appointment!