What are dental sealants? Are they right for your child? Are they right for you? Dr. Robert Rahm and his team at Chesterfield Valley Dental answer all of your questions about dental sealants.
Dental Sealant 101
A sealant is a thin layer of protective coating that is "painted" onto the chewing surface, typically your back teeth. The sealant fills in the grooves and pits that tend to occur on these teeth so they are less susceptible to the bacteria and acids that cause tooth decay. Sealants are not permanent, as they will wear away over time.
The process starts with ensuring that the surface of the tooth is completely dry, then applying a thin layer of the protective coating and bonding it directly to the tooth. Sealants are a quick and non-invasive treatment that can usually be completed during one appointment. Typically, dental anesthetics don't even need to be used during this procedure.
Does My Child Need Sealants?
Dental sealants are often recommended for children since kids often lack the skills for optimal brushing. Sealants give added protection to their teeth, and we do notice fewer cavities in children with sealants on their teeth.
Are Sealants Good For Adults?
Adults can also benefit from dental sealants, especially if they are cavity prone. Dr. Rahm may recommend them for you, or you can ask during your next cleaning and examination. Sealants are not typically covered by insurance for adults, but they are an inexpensive way to give your teeth added protection against tooth decay.
Contact Chesterfield Valley Dental to Learn More About Dental Sealants
At Chesterfield Valley Dental, we provide high-quality family dentistry to patients in Chesterfield, MO. If you would like to learn more about dental sealants and how they might benefit your family, give us a call today.