Are Sealants Only for Children?

Maintaining proper dental hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, are the best ways to keep tooth decay and cavities at bay. However, it’s not always easy to reach and effectively clean every groove and crevice, especially on the teeth at the back of the mouth. Avalon Dental Care is proud to offer a range of preventive services, including dental sealants to prevent tooth decay and promote long-term healthy smiles!

What Are Dental Sealants and How Do They Work?

Dental sealants are thin plastic shields that cover and protect the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. When applied, the material bonds to the pits and depressions on the teeth, forming protective coatings that essentially seal out bacteria and food debris, preventing plaque and acids from eroding the tooth enamel and causing tooth decay. Sealants have also been shown to effectively stop the progression of early decay.

Are Sealants Only for Children?

Dental sealants are primarily used to protect the molars and premolars of children and teens. However, adults can also benefit from this preventive measure, especially if they are at risk of developing cavities. The best way to determine whether dental sealants are right for you is to consult with your trusted team at Avalon Dental Care.

When Should Sealants Be Placed?

When it comes to children, the best time for placing sealants is when the permanent teeth erupt, between ages 5-7 for the first set of molars and 11-14 for the second set. Preventing cavities right from the start will help avoid the need for extensive dental treatments down the road. When it comes to adults, the best time to place dental sealants is now. Don’t wait for cavities or tooth pain to develop!

What Is the Dental Sealant Placement Procedure?

Placing dental sealants is a quick and easy procedure that doesn’t require local anesthetics. We’ll start with cleaning those pearly whites then drying them carefully. Next is placing an etching solution to roughen the chewing surfaces of the teeth to help the sealant material bond. Once again, we’ll rinse and dry your teeth, then paint the sealant onto the teeth. We may use a special curing light to harden the material. The resulting coating will form a barrier against food debris, plaque, and bacteria.

Dental Sealants in El Segundo and Lomita

Contact Avalon Dental Care to learn more about our preventive services, including dental sealants. Our team is all about prevention to safeguard your oral health and ensure you enjoy a healthy smile for many years to come. Call us and schedule your appointment today!