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

Cavity Prevention

Thanks to dental sealants, patients are far less likely to develop cavities that affect their back teeth, which are a common problem area.

Long-Term Oral Health

By avoiding cavities and the need for dental restorations, patients retain their tooth enamel and avoid oral health issues later in life.

Savings on Dental Care

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.

Cavity-Prone Adults

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.

Good Oral Hygiene

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.

Foods to Avoid

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.

Regular Dental Checkups

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.