Dental Sealants in San Francisco, CA

Some teeth, especially molars, have deep grooves that are difficult to properly clean. A dental sealant is a thin coating that your dentist paints onto the chewing surfaces of your teeth to prevent bacteria from becoming trapped in these large pits or grooves, helping to protect your teeth from cavities and tooth decay. At Symphony Dental Studio in San Francisco, CA, we offer dental sealants to all ages. Contact us today to schedule your dental appointment or to learn more about how sealants can protect your teeth. 

What To Expect While Getting Dental Sealants 

This treatment works by effectively sealing the deep grooves in teeth and takes only a few minutes to complete. We will properly clean the teeth that will receive the sealants and use cotton to keep the area dry. Then, we will paint the sealant over the teeth that need them and wait for it to harden. 

Most people who receive dental sealants have them applied to the molars and premolars, though your dentist may apply them to any tooth with deep grooves or fissures. A dental sealant is able to withstand normal biting and chewing force and can last for several years before needing reapplication. 

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last? 

Dental sealants can typically last up to 10 years. During routine dental exams and cleanings, we will check your sealants to make sure they’re in great condition. Patients who habitually clench or grind their teeth may cause the sealant to crack or fall off prematurely. If your sealant has fallen out or cracked, you should have the sealant reapplied as soon as you can to restore this protective shield around your teeth. 

Are Sealants Right for My Child? 

Children as young as 6 can receive dental sealants to prevent cavities and decay. Dental sealants are most effective when applied early, usually around age 6 for the first molars and age 12 for the second molars. Many parents choose sealants for their children because it is cheaper and healthier to prevent cavities in the first place, compared to the cost and irreversible decay that cavities could cause. Deep grooves can develop on permanent teeth later in life, making sealants an equally beneficial treatment for adults. 

Dental Sealants for Adults

Children and teenagers are popular candidates for sealants because of the increased likelihood of developing tooth decay. However, adults can also benefit from dental sealants. While less common, sealants can be placed in adults with deep grooves and fissures on their teeth who do not already have fillings or sealants. There is no age limit for cavities, so protecting your teeth with sealants at any age can be beneficial to your overall dental health. 

Dental Sealants in San Francisco, CA

By having a sealant applied, you can protect your oral health and make it easier to keep your teeth clean every day. Contact Symphony Dental Studio in San Francisco, CA, today to find out if it’s time for you or your child to receive a dental sealant.