Dental Sealants
Sometimes brushing, flossing, and regular checkups aren’t enough to stop cavities from forming. Fortunately, more protection is available.
Dr. Jason Streeter can use dental sealants to prevent tooth decay on the molars and premolars. It’s a simple and effective solution.
Learn how getting sealants at our Colorado Springs, CO, practice helps kids and adults avoid decay
What Are Dental Sealants?
How Sealants Work
Dental sealants are a thin, clear plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars. The material is able to cover the deep grooves of these teeth where food particles and oral bacteria like to hide.
Sealants create a protective barrier from bacteria and food particles, which prevents tooth decay from developing.
How effective are dental sealants?
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
Thanks to dental sealants, patients are far less likely to develop cavities that affect their back teeth, which are a common problem area.
By avoiding cavities and the need for dental restorations, patients retain their tooth enamel and avoid oral health issues later in life.
Maintaining your oral health through preventative dentistry means many patients won’t require costly dental work in the long run.
Are Sealants Covered by Insurance?
Dental insurance will typically cover some or all of a sealant procedure. The team at our Colorado Springs practice can assist with the process and discuss financing options to make the procedure even more affordable. We also offer an in-house discount plan that can help uninsured patients receive the care they need.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Candidates for Preventative Treatment
Children Ages 6 to 14
Children 14 and younger are prime candidates for dental sealants. We can help your child avoid tooth decay and have healthy back teeth into their adulthood. Dr. Streeter can then focus on their other dental health needs.
You’re never too old for preventative dentistry. Streeter Dental has recommended sealants to a number of cavity-prone adults. Regardless of your age, the team at our Colorado Springs practice focuses on your long-term oral health.
Report Chips or Any Issues
Fixing Damaged Dental Sealants
If your sealants chip or come loose, feel free to contact us. The team at Streeter Dental can schedule an appointment to check on your sealants and fix them up as good as new.
What to Expect during Treament
A Guide Through the Process
Cleaning and Drying the Teeth
Any tooth being treated will be thoroughly cleaned. Plaque and food particles are removed from the deep grooves of the molars and premolars. The back teeth are then dried.
Prepping the Chewing Surface
A mildly acidic etching gel is applied to the chewing surface of the back teeth. This helps improve the bond between the sealant and the tooth. This gel is rinsed away and the teeth are dried again.
Applying the Sealant
The sealant is painted directly onto the surface fo the tooth where it will dry. Dr. Streeter will ensure a thorough coating to help protect each tooth from decay.
Curing the Dental Sealant
The sealant is exposed to an intense light that helps the material harden. The curing process prevents cracks, and allows the dental sealant to remain securely in place.
Even though sealants offer great cavity protection, continue to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss every night. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Dental sealants are strong, but they can still break or come loose. Be sure to avoid hard and sticky candies, such as jawbreakers, caramel, and fruits snacks.
Continue to visit Streeter Dental every six months for regular checkups. Dr. Streeter can check on the condition of your sealants, and repair or reapply the protective coating as needed.
