Dental Sealants

Dental Sealants in Holden, MA

Holden Family Dentistry in Holden, MA, offers dental care for the entire family. We provide general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry procedures to solve any dental problems that you may experience.

If you need sealants or other preventative dental services, contact our dental office to schedule an appointment.

What are dental sealants, and what do they do?

Dental sealants are a preventative dentistry treatment used to protect teeth from cavities. Placing dental sealants in Holden, MA, includes applying a liquid material that hardens into an acrylic resin onto the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars.

Dental sealants are often used on children’s teeth because they are more likely to experience cavities due to their lack of brushing experience and deep tooth grooves that can trap food and bacteria.

Types of Sealants

Our dentist can use two sealants to protect the teeth: glass ionomer and composite resin.

Glass Ionomer: Glass ionomer sealants are applied in our office with acid etching that bonds to the patient’s teeth. They also release fluoride to help strengthen the enamel of teeth.

Composite Resin: Composite resin sealants are applied with a small brush and then cured with a special light. They are made of plastic and ceramic and match well with the natural color of the patient’s teeth. Composite resin sealants do not release fluoride, but they are very durable and can last many years.

Who should get dental sealants?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children receive dental sealants on their molars around age 6. This is because molars are more likely than other teeth to develop cavities, and sealants can provide an extra layer of protection. However, sealants are not just for kids—adults can also get them, particularly if they have a history of cavities or gum disease.

How Dental Sealants are Applied

Dental sealants are usually applied during a regular checkup appointment. The dentist will apply them to the grooves on your back teeth—the molars and premolars. The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting the tooth from plaque and bacteria.

The process of applying sealants is quick and easy:

1. First, the dental hygenist will clean the teeth to remove any debris.
2. Then, depending on the type of sealant, a small amount of acid may be added to the teeth to help the sealant bond to the tooth.
3. Next, the dentist or hygenist will apply a thin coating layer to the grooves of the back teeth.
4. Finally, a special curing light will harden the material and bond it to the teeth.

It may feel a bit strange initially, but you will not even notice it after a few days.

Benefits of Dental Sealants

Sealants protect the teeth from cavities by filling in the grooves and pits that patients often find difficult to clean with a toothbrush. Sealants can last for several years and are an easy and effective way to help prevent cavities, leading to the need for more invasive procedures like root canals. Sealants can help reduce the cost of dental care over time by preventing more severe problems from developing. As a result, sealants provide a valuable tool for protecting children’s and adults’ teeth from cavities.

Cost of a Dental Sealant Procedure

Dental sealant treatment is affordable and can be completed alongside your regular dental cleaning.

Many dental insurance plans may cover the sealants since they are preventive treatment. For more information about coverage, you should contact your dental insurance provider. If you still have questions, contact our office, and one of our team members will be happy to discuss the cost with you.

Sealants Can Last a Long Time

Dental sealants can last up to ten years since they are made from durable plastic. If you notice your sealant is damaged or needs to be replaced, call our office to notify your dentist. Our dentist will also check your sealants during routine dental visits to ensure they do not need any attention.

Contact Holden Family Dentistry for Your Preventive Dentistry Needs

At Holden Family Dentistry, our patients’ dental health is our top priority. We serve both children and adult patients with any dental procedure you may need. If you need sealants or other dental services, contact us to schedule an appointment for all your dental care needs.