How Dental Sealants Protect Your Teeth from Cavities

Cavities are one of the most common dental issues affecting both children and adults. While professional cleanings and checkups, proper brushing, and flossing are essential to prevent decay, there’s another powerful preventive tool many patients overlook—dental sealants.

At Royal Dental Care – Schaumburg, we prioritize preventive dentistry to protect your smile for the long term. Our children’s dentistry services and adult care programs both include options like sealants to help minimize your risk of cavities, especially in those hard-to-clean areas of the mouth.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made of plastic or composite resin applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth—typically the molars and premolars. These areas are prone to decay due to their deep grooves and pits that can trap bacteria and food particles, even with excellent brushing habits.

Once applied, sealants act as a protective barrier that blocks plaque, acids, and debris from damaging the tooth enamel.

Who Should Get Dental Sealants?

Sealants are beneficial for both children and adults. Here’s who should consider them:

• Children (ages 6–14): Ideal for protecting newly erupted molars during cavity-prone years.
• Younger children (ages 5–7): For high-risk cases, sealants may even be used on baby teeth.
• Cavity-prone adults: If you have deep grooves in your molars and no existing decay or dental fillings, sealants can still be effective.

Sealants are often part of a preventive dental strategy, which may also include fluoride treatments and regular cleanings.

How Are Sealants Applied?

The sealant application process is quick, comfortable, and non-invasive—perfect for even the youngest patients. Here’s what to expect:

1. Cleaning: The tooth is cleaned to remove food and plaque.
2. Drying: The tooth is kept dry for better adhesion.
3. Etching: A mild solution is applied to roughen the surface slightly for better bonding.
4. Rinsing & Drying Again
5. Application: The sealant is painted onto the tooth surface.
6. Curing: A special light hardens the material within seconds.

It takes just a few minutes per tooth, making it an excellent add-on during your child’s routine checkup.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Sealants can last 5 to 10 years, depending on oral habits and wear. During your routine visits, we’ll inspect the sealants to ensure they’re intact and offer reapplication if needed.

Are Sealants Safe?

Yes—dental sealants are completely safe and supported by the ADA and CDC. Although they contain trace amounts of BPA, exposure levels are extremely low, less than what you’d encounter through daily environmental contact.

For children receiving other treatments like tooth extractions or root canal therapy, we may recommend sealants on surrounding healthy teeth to prevent future issues.

Key Benefits of Dental Sealants

• Cavity Prevention: Sealants reduce decay risk by up to 80%.
• Cost-Effective: They help avoid more extensive procedures like dental crowns or dental implants.
• Quick & Non-Invasive: No drilling, no pain—perfect for children and anxious patients.
• Long-Term Protection: One treatment can last for years.
• Ideal for Pediatric Dentistry: When paired with services like Invisalign for teens, sealants support a full oral health plan.

FAQs

Q1: Are dental sealants covered by insurance?

Yes, many dental insurance plans cover sealants for children. We’ll confirm your benefits before treatment to avoid surprises.

Q2: Can adults get dental sealants, too?

Absolutely. If your molars are free of decay or existing restorations, sealants can protect them from future cavities. Ask about this option at your next visit.

Why Choose Royal Dental Care – Schaumburg?

Our Schaumburg dental team takes a preventive, patient-first approach. Whether you need sealants, periodontal therapy, or cosmetic treatments like porcelain veneers, we’ll tailor your care to match your needs and goals.

We proudly serve Schaumburg families with a commitment to safety, comfort, and modern dental excellence.

Take the Next Step Toward a Cavity-Free Smile

Don’t wait until cavities strike—protect your teeth today with dental sealants. Whether it’s your first visit or a back-to-school exam for your child, Royal Dental Care – Schaumburg is here to help.

Schedule your appointment today or call us to learn more about sealants and preventive care options.