Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a thin protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. They seal off the deep grooves where food and bacteria like to collect, making those teeth much easier to keep clean. The procedure is quick, painless, and takes just a few minutes per tooth.
Who Should Get Sealants
Sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers once their permanent molars come in, usually between ages 6 and 14. Those years are the most cavity-prone, and sealants give an extra layer of defense on top of regular brushing and flossing.
Adults can benefit too. If you have deep grooves in your molars and no existing fillings in those teeth, sealants are worth considering. Ask Dr. Lee at your next checkup whether they make sense for you or your child.
How They're Applied
The process is simple. Your teeth are cleaned and dried. A mild etching solution is applied to roughen the surface slightly so the sealant bonds properly. Then the liquid sealant is painted onto the chewing surface and hardened with a curing light. That's it. About five minutes per tooth, and you can eat and drink normally right away.
Sealants don't replace brushing and flossing, but they add a real barrier against decay. Studies show they reduce cavity risk in molars by nearly 80% in the first two years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about dental sealants. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Give us a call.
Yes. They've been used safely for decades and are recommended by the American Dental Association. The materials are BPA-free and designed specifically for use in the mouth.
Typically 5 to 10 years before needing reapplication. Dr. Lee checks them at every regular visit and will let you know if any need to be redone.
Not at all. No drilling, no needles, no numbing. It's one of the easiest procedures we do.
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Cavities are one of the most common dental issues we treat and one of the most preventable. When decay breaks through your enamel, it creates a hole that only grows if left alone. Catching it early means a quick, simple fix. We use tooth-colored composite fillings that blend with your natural teeth so nobody can tell the difference.
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Children's Dentistry
Positive dental experiences early on set the tone for a lifetime of good oral health. We see kids of all ages, from first tooth through teenage years. Dr. Lee and our team take the time to explain things at their level, let them explore at their own pace, and make every visit something they don't dread.
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Checkups
Regular checkups are the foundation of everything we do. They let Dr. Lee catch problems early, often before you notice any symptoms. That means simpler treatments, less discomfort, and lower costs over time. We recommend every six months for most patients.
Learn MoreReady to Get Started?
Schedule a consultation to learn more about dental sealants. Our team will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.