What Are Dental Sealants and How Do They Work?
Hi, I'm Dr. Amy here at Boulder Canyon Dental, and today I'm going to go over a lot of common questions we get about sealant work.
Dr. Amy, what are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are a protective material that we flow into all the deep pits and grooves of newly erupted teeth so that they are easier to cleanse, especially in those younger ages when our home skills may not be as great as they are once we're a bit older.
How do dental sealants work?
Dental sealants work by taking a very sharp angle and making it flat, allowing the toothbrush bristles to naturally reach the base and cleanse all the areas effectively.
How are dental sealants applied to teeth?
Dental sealants are applied to teeth very conservatively. We prep the tooth first with an acid base that removes all the water content from the tooth, then place the sealant directly on top, and use a bright light to cure it. It instantly hardens and is completely painless. The only downside is you may experience a little bit of a bad taste, so we would warn you before we apply anything.
How soon can I brush my teeth after getting dental sealants?
After getting dental sealants, you can immediately brush your teeth if you'd like.
How long do dental sealants protect teeth?
Dental sealants protect teeth. The length of time a dental sealant protects a tooth is really patient-dependent. Most commonly, we see them last between 10 and 15 years. However, for someone who's a heavy grinder or who doesn't have great home care and is more susceptible to cavities, they might last in the 5 to 8 year range.
Can dental sealants help with sensitive teeth?
Typically, dental sealants don't help with sensitive teeth because the sensitivity isn't coming from those specific areas. However, if a patient experiences sensitivity only when chewing, sealants can provide more comfort.
Can you get dental sealants if you have fillings or tooth decay?
If you have fillings or tooth decay, you cannot get a sealant in that area. However, there are always extra pits and grooves we can check to see if we could seal them to prevent any future decay.
How much does it cost to get dental sealants applied to my teeth?
For patients under the age of 18, dental sealants are typically covered at 100% by dental insurance. If you are not covered by dental insurance or you're above that age and want the protective coating, it could be anywhere between $40 and $68 per tooth depending on your insurance plan or coverage.
If you’re looking for dental care you can trust, call us at (970) 514-0662 or email [email protected]. We’re here to help you have the smile you've always wanted!