Sealants Specialist Q&A

Sealants are a safe and effective way to protect teeth from decay. Sealants can be used on the back teeth as well as the front teeth. Typically, an appointment will take less than thirty minutes. Some sealants can last as long as ten years. It is a clear, soft, rubbery material that is stuck to the surface of the teeth. It is used to protect against tooth decay by filling in small pits and cracks in tooth enamel. They are usually applied by the dentist during regular dental checkups.

Yes, children and adults can get sealants. For most adults, a dental sealant is a thin plastic coating that is applied to the chewing surface of the teeth, filling small gaps and cracks between the teeth that can harbor decay. When a sealant is placed on a molar, it protects the entire chewing surface. For instance, after applying the sealant to the tops of the teeth, this coating would be thin enough to cover the gum line and canines as well. The teeth on the bottom of the jaw, which require a less severe chewing force than the jaws’ higher molars, are also protected, and further lower the chances of tooth decay.

Most dental sealants are designed to last for over a decade, but the actual lifespan of dental sealants depends on many different factors, including the type of sealant used, diet, and oral hygiene habits.

Tips to increase the longevity of dental sealants include:


• Brush twice daily — Regular brushing is the most important part of oral hygiene as it helps to remove food particles that stick to the teeth when eating.

• Use a quality mouthwash — Using an antibacterial mouthwash is another vital part of oral hygiene as it helps to reduce the bacteria in the mouth that convert sugars and food particles into acids that can damage the teeth, as well as dental sealants.

• Avoid sugary items — Sugar is just as bad for dental sealants as it is for natural teeth. Consuming high quantities of sugar allows oral bacteria to quickly convert these particles into acids, significantly contributing to tooth decay.

• Avoid chewing on hard substances — Many people chew on things habitually, such as pens, pencils, fingernails and other hard substances. This is detrimental for the health of teeth with or without dental sealants.

There are many advantages of sealants which include: they have anti-microbial and anti-cavity properties, and they are very effective at preventing cavities and tooth decay. Sealants are most commonly used in conjunction with dentures and bridgework to fill in dental gaps and missing teeth. They are often used on teeth to prevent dental decay and also on sensitive teeth to make them more resistant to temperature changes. As well as being used on children, they can also be used on adults who are missing a tooth or teeth. If you are looking for an easy way to maintain a bright and vivid smile, come to Smile Dental for our dental sealants! Our dental professionals are experienced providers of dental sealants and can help you achieve the smile of your dreams with this simple procedure! Call us today to book an appointment for dental sealants, or visit our clinic in Stafford, Texas today! We serve patients from Stafford TX, Meadows Place TX, Missouri City TX, Sugar Land TX, Fifth Street TX, Dewalt TX, and Trammels TX. We look forward to serving you!