Keep Your Teeth Healthy With Sealants
If you are someone whose teeth are prone to cavities, it may be a good idea to come to Premier Smiles of Bellevue to get dental sealants from our dentists. Dr. Vietnam Huynh or Dr. Thaihoa Huynh can apply the sealant on the affected tooth, which will protect it from decay for many years. Call (425) 696-9500 to schedule your dental sealant treatment in Bellevue, Washington.
How Dental Sealants Protect Your Teeth
A sealant is a preventive dental treatment that our dentists may recommend to protect patients’ teeth from decay. A dental sealant is made of a clear or tooth-colored resin material, which is painted onto the chewing surface of teeth. By blocking out the bacteria and food debris that lead to tooth decay, the sealant prevents decay and cavities. The dental sealant forms a smooth coating over the natural pits and grooves of the tooth surface, which also makes it easier to effectively clean teeth with normal brushing.
Dental sealants are most often recommended for children. They are frequently recommended for the permanent molars as soon as they come in, usually between the ages of 6 and 12 years. We may also recommend dental sealants for adult patients whose teeth are prone to decay or have not been restored or suffered from decay in the past. We can apply dental sealants in just one short, comfortable visit to our practice.
Why Sealants Are Beneficial
Dental sealants provide an extra layer of protection for teeth, especially in areas most vulnerable to cavities. They can benefit patients of all ages:
Kids and Teens
Sealants are most effective when applied to the first permanent molars, usually around age 6, and can help protect teeth throughout the cavity-prone years up to age 16.
Adults
For adults with deep grooves in their teeth that haven’t yet developed decay, dental sealants provide an effective way to protect those vulnerable areas and prevent future cavities.
Young Children (Baby Teeth)
In some cases, sealants may also be recommended for baby teeth, especially if a child has deep grooves and is at higher risk for developing cavities.
How Sealants Are Applied
The process of getting dental sealants is quick, easy, and completely painless—usually taking just a few minutes per tooth:
- The tooth is cleaned and dried thoroughly.
- Cotton or a small barrier is placed to keep the tooth dry.
- A mild solution is applied to gently roughen the surface so the sealant can bond properly.
- The tooth is rinsed and dried again.
- The sealant is carefully painted onto the chewing surface.
- It hardens naturally or with the help of a special curing light.
With proper care—brushing, flossing, eating a healthy diet, and visiting your dentist regularly—sealants can protect your teeth from cavities for many years.
