Dental Sealants
Bellevue, WA
In decades past, tooth decay, cavities, and even extraction were considered a normal part of oral health. Dentistry has made incredible advancements in education and prevention. Today, many young patients reach adulthood without ever experiencing a cavity—thanks in part to dental sealants. Our team at A Smiling Heart Dentistry can seal off vulnerable areas to help keep teeth healthier.
Teeth have natural pits and fissures designed for chewing. Unfortunately, these same grooves can trap food and bacteria, especially in children still developing brushing habits. Sealants help protect these hard-to-clean areas, making them easier to maintain and reducing the risk of cavities.
Dental Sealants Process
A dental sealant is a liquid plastic material painted onto the grooves of the teeth most susceptible to decay. Once hardened, it forms a protective varnish-like layer over the enamel. This layer acts as both a physical barrier and a smoothing agent to make brushing easier.
While sealants are most often applied to children and teens with newly erupted premolars, they can also benefit adults who are at higher risk for decay due to enamel composition, disabilities, or hygiene challenges. The application process is quick and painless, often performed right after a professional cleaning.
The process includes:
- Clean the Area: We remove bacteria using specialized paste and rotary brushes.
- Apply an Acidic Solution: This gently roughens the enamel so the sealant can adhere more securely.
- Paint on the Sealants: A thin layer of sealant is painted directly onto the tooth.
- Harden the Sealant Material: We use a blue curing light to harden the material, leaving a protective coating behind.
Sealants are durable and can protect against decay for up to 10 years. We may monitor them during future exams and recommend reapplication as needed.
Schedule An Appointment
If you’d like to learn more about the dental sealant process, call us at (425) 558-9998 to schedule an appointment today.