Dental sealants offer a simple yet highly effective way to protect your teeth from cavities and long-term decay. A sealant is a thin, protective coating made from a clear or tooth-colored resin material. This coating is carefully painted onto the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, where decay is most likely to occur. The sealant bonds into the grooves of the molars and premolars, creating a smooth surface that shields these vulnerable areas from food particles and bacteria.
Why You Might Need a Dental Sealant
You may not realize how easily plaque and food debris can become trapped in the deep pits and fissures of your molars. Even with good brushing habits, those hard-to-reach areas can harbor bacteria that lead to cavities. A sealant acts as a barrier, helping to prevent decay before it starts. While sealants are most often applied to children’s permanent molars shortly after they come in — typically between the ages of 6 and 12 — they can also be beneficial for teens and adults who are prone to cavities or have teeth with deep grooves.
Quick & Comfortable Application
Getting a dental sealant in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, is a quick and painless process. First, your tooth will be cleaned and dried. Next, a special gel is applied to help the sealant bond to the enamel. After rinsing and drying the tooth again, our dentists will paint the sealant onto the tooth surface. A curing light is then used to harden the material, which only takes a few seconds. In just one short appointment, you can take an important step toward better oral health.
Long-Term Cavity Prevention
Dental sealants in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, can last several years with proper care, offering long-term protection against decay. They are a conservative, cost-effective preventive treatment that supports your overall oral hygiene. Routine dental checkups will ensure that your sealants are intact and still doing their job.
If you would like to know whether sealants are right for you or your child, our team is here to help. Call Elrod & Dunham Dentistry today to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Joseph Elrod, Dr. Bryson Dunham and associates and learn how we can help protect your smile for years to come.