Dental Sealants Phoenix

Keeping Teeth Safe From Decay

Dental sealants are thin layers of plastic designed to help protect natural teeth from decay. They are most commonly recommended for back teeth (your molars) that have more pits and grooves—the perfect breeding ground for plaque buildup and bacteria growth. Regular brushing and flossing may be less effective here. While sealants are not a replacement for regular oral hygiene, they can help protect tough to reach areas from plaque and food here in Phoenix.

Dental sealants are most commonly prescribed for children, but they are not uncommon for adults. To administer sealants, our Smile Fitness doctors will first clean and dry the tooth and apply a mildly acidic solution that helps the sealant bond to the tooth. Then the clear or white sealant material is "painted" onto the tooth and dried with a special curing light to help it harden more quickly. In general, sealants can last for many years but they do break down over time with normal wear and tear. They do need to be checked regularly and reapplied when necessary.

At your next check up, please ask us about dental sealants for you or a family member. As an important component of preventive dentistry, sealants may be covered by your dental insurance. We'll be happy to check for you.