Dental Sealants

The back teeth (molars and premolars) can be tough to keep completely clean, even with excellent brushing and flossing habits. Their natural grooves and crevices make them prone to trapping food particles and plaque, creating the perfect environment for tooth decay.

That’s where dental sealants come in. This quick, non-invasive treatment offers an extra layer of protection to help keep teeth healthy and cavity-free, especially for children and teens.

While brushing and flossing are essential for overall oral hygiene, sealants provide added protection in the hard-to-reach areas that toothbrushes often miss.

How Are Sealants Applied?

Your dentist can apply dental sealants in a single visit through a quick, painless process. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Cleaning: We start by thoroughly cleaning the teeth to remove any debris or plaque.
2. Drying: The teeth are dried, and absorbent material is placed around them to keep them dry during the procedure.
3. Etching: We apply a mild acid solution to the chewing surfaces to gently roughen them. Etching helps the sealant adhere more effectively.
4. Rinsing & Drying: We rinse the acid off the teeth, and the teeth are dried once again.
5. Application: We carefully paint the sealant onto the tooth enamel. It bonds to the surface and hardens, sometimes with the help of a special curing light.

Once hardened, the sealant creates a durable, invisible shield that can last for several years with proper oral care.

Who Can Benefit from Sealants?

• Children and Teens: Sealants are especially effective for kids, as newly erupted permanent molars are most vulnerable to decay.
• Adults: Patients without decay or fillings in their molars may also benefit from sealants as a preventive measure.

Protect Your Smile the Easy Way

Sealants are a smart, preventative option for keeping your or your child’s teeth strong and healthy. At Tempe Dental Care, we offer sealant treatments as part of our commitment to preventive care.

Schedule a visit today to learn how dental sealants can help protect your smile for years to come.