The Value Of Dental Sealants

OK, OK…  THE TOPIC OF “DENTAL SEALANTS” IS ABOUT AS EXCITING AS IT SOUNDS—but don’t let the boring name fool you! In some cases, this simple and quick procedure is one of the easiest things we can do for you to help prevent cavities and tooth decay.

Drs. Hammond and Ellis recommend using sealants as preventive dental care for most children. You see, children’s teeth have small depressions and grooves, making it harder to properly clean them using brushing alone. Sealants can help create protection in these small depressions and grooves, which helps keep plaque from forming in the crevices. Even though it’s ideal to get sealants as a child, adults are also often good candidates for dental sealants.

Sealants are applied during a very short visit. After your teeth are cleaned and prepped, the sealing solution is painted directly on tooth surfaces. Then, a curing light hardens the sealant. After the sealant is hardened you’re on your way—no need to wait to eat or drink. Routine dental checkups will allow Dr. Hammond or Dr. Ellis to keep tabs on your sealants, making sure they’re in good condition.

Sealants can last about 10 years—making one application last from childhood, well into adulthood. To see if it’s the right time to get sealants for your children or yourself, just ask us using our contact form. Or, you can always send us a message on Twitter or on our Facebook microsite.