Dental sealants are a great way to prevent tooth decay from ever happening. One of the areas that teeth are the most prone to developing cavities is in the deep grooves on the chewing surfaces of the molars. Sealants are a smooth, plastic-like coating that is placed over the grooves to prevent bacteria from settling deep within them and causing tooth decay (unfortunately, they can’t be placed between the teeth, so you’ll still need to floss!)
Sealants are typically placed on permanent molars soon after they erupt, around the ages of 6 and 12. However, many adults also choose to have sealants placed on their teeth, especially if they're at a high risk for decay. Most insurance companies cover sealants 100% on children, but because the procedure is so affordable adults often elect to pay out of pocket to have them completed as well.
Applying a sealant takes just a few minutes, and there are no drills or shots. The tooth is simply cleansed, conditioned, has the sealant brushed into the grooves, and then is exposed to a light which cures the material and causes it to harden in place. A well-applied sealant has the potential to last as long as ten years.
Call our office to schedule a convenient appointment today (954) 210-4376.
