Sealants
Protect Your Smile with Dental Sealants at Clarkson Family Dentistry
A Simple, Effective Way to Prevent Cavities—Especially for Kids!
Looking for an easy way to keep your teeth (or your child’s teeth) protected from cavities? Dental sealants are a simple, painless treatment that acts like a shield for your teeth, keeping out harmful bacteria and preventing decay. At Clarkson Family Dentistry, we use sealants to give you that extra layer of protection—so you can keep smiling confidently, cavity-free!
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that we apply to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (the molars). These teeth have lots of grooves and pits where food and bacteria can easily get stuck, making them more prone to cavities. Sealants fill in those grooves, creating a smooth surface that’s easier to clean and less likely to trap food or plaque.
Think of it like a raincoat for your teeth! Sealants keep out the “bad stuff” that leads to decay, giving you or your child extra protection where it’s needed most.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Sealants are especially helpful for kids and teens, who tend to be more prone to cavities. But adults can benefit from them too! Here’s who should consider sealants:
- Kids with new molars: Once your child’s permanent molars come in (usually around age 6 for the first set and age 12 for the second), sealants can help protect these teeth from early decay.
- Teens and adults prone to cavities: If you or your teen have deep grooves in your teeth or a history of cavities, sealants can provide an extra layer of protection.
- Anyone looking for extra cavity prevention: If you want to reduce your risk of cavities and keep your teeth healthy for the long haul, sealants are a great option.
How Are Sealants Applied?
Applying sealants is a quick and easy process that only takes a few minutes per tooth—and it’s completely painless! Here’s what you can expect:
1. Cleaning the Tooth
First, we’ll clean the surface of the tooth to make sure it’s free of plaque or food particles.
2. Preparing the Tooth
We’ll apply a special gel that helps the sealant bond to your tooth.
3. Applying the Sealant
The sealant is painted directly onto the chewing surface of the tooth, and we’ll use a special light to harden it.
4. Done!
Once the sealant is in place, it’s ready to protect your tooth. You can eat and drink normally right after the procedure!
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Sealants can last for several years, but we’ll check them during your regular dental visits to make sure they’re still doing their job. If we notice any wear, we can reapply the sealant quickly and easily.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
- Extra Protection
Sealants are like a shield for your teeth, helping to prevent cavities in those hard-to-clean areas.
- Painless and Quick
The application process is quick, easy, and completely painless.
- Great for Kids
Sealants are especially effective for children and teens, protecting their new permanent teeth from early decay.
- Cost-Effective
Sealants can save you money in the long run by helping you avoid more expensive treatments like fillings or crowns.
FAQs About Sealants
Are sealants only for kids?
While sealants are commonly applied to children’s teeth, they’re also a great option for teens and adults who are prone to cavities. If you have deep grooves in your teeth or just want extra protection, sealants can help!
How long do sealants last?
Sealants can last up to 10 years with proper care. We’ll check them during your regular visits and let you know if they need to be reapplied.
Does it hurt to get sealants?
Not at all! Getting sealants is a quick, painless process. There’s no drilling or numbing involved—just a smooth, easy application.
Do I still need to brush and floss if I have sealants?
Yes! Sealants protect the chewing surface of your teeth, but you still need to brush and floss to keep your whole mouth healthy. Think of sealants as an extra layer of protection—they’re not a substitute for good oral hygiene!
Ready to Protect Your Smile with Sealants? Let’s Get Started!
If you’re interested in getting sealants for yourself or your child, we’re here to help! Give us a call at (770) 532-4419 or use our online booking form to schedule an appointment. At Clarkson Family Dentistry, we’re all about keeping your smile healthy, happy, and cavity-free—starting with easy, effective dental sealants!