Sealants

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, invisible plastic coatings. Dr. Anne applies them to the surfaces of the back teeth, which are most vulnerable to cavities.

The back teeth (molars) have deep grooves and pits that can trap food and bacteria. These areas are hard to reach with a toothbrush, especially for children who are still learning proper brushing techniques.

Sealants smooth out these surfaces, making them easier to clean and creating a barrier against plaque and bacteria. Lotus Dental often recommends sealants for children to help protect their teeth from decay and reduce the need for future dental work.

How are sealants applied?

The process is quick, painless, and doesn’t require numbing. Here’s how it works:

Dr. Anne examines the teeth and removes any minimal decay if needed. She cleans and dries them, then applies an acidic gel. This gel roughens the tooth surface slightly so that the sealant bonds well.

Next, Dr. Anne rinses the gel off and dries the tooth again. She paints the sealant material into each tooth’s grooves. Lastly, she uses a special blue light to harden the sealant.

Tooth enamel doesn’t have nerves, so applying a sealant is completely painless. Children typically find the process easy and stress-free.

How long do sealants last?

Sealants can last up to 10 years with proper care. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups will help keep them in good condition.

If a sealant wears down or comes loose, Dr. Anne can easily repair or replace it during a routine visit.

How effective are sealants at preventing cavities?

Sealants lower your risk of tooth decay by up to 70%. They’re a simple, affordable way to protect teeth and prevent the need for fillings, crowns, or other restorative treatments.

If you want to give your child’s smile extra protection, schedule an appointment with Dr. Anne. She’ll examine their teeth and let you know if sealants are the right choice for preventing cavities.

Sealants are usually applied to children’s teeth soon after the permanent molars come in. However, adults with no decay or fillings in their molars can benefit from sealants as well.

Call Lotus Dental or book an appointment online today to benefit from sealant protection.