Shield Your Teeth From Cavities With Dental Sealants

At River Park Dental, we believe prevention is key to lifelong oral health. Dental sealants offer a simple, effective way to protect teeth from cavities—especially in hard-to-clean areas of the mouth.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—typically the molars and premolars. These teeth have deep grooves and pits that can trap food and bacteria, increasing the risk of decay. Sealants fill in those grooves, creating a smoother surface that’s easier to brush and clean. While sealants are durable, our team will check them at your routine visits to ensure they remain intact and effective.

Why Are Sealants Beneficial?

Sealants provide an extra layer of defense against cavities and are a smart choice for patients of all ages:

Kids and Teens: The ideal time for sealants is when the first permanent molars erupt—usually around age 6. They protect teeth during the most cavity-prone years, up to the mid-teens.
Adults: If you have deep grooves or pits but no existing decay, sealants can still help prevent future cavities.
Young Children: In some cases, sealants may also be applied to baby teeth, particularly if your child has a higher risk of developing cavities.

How Are Sealants Applied?

Getting sealants is quick, comfortable, and completely painless. The process typically takes just a few minutes per tooth:

The tooth is thoroughly cleaned and dried.
Cotton or a small barrier is placed to keep the tooth dry.
A mild solution is applied to roughen the surface slightly, helping the sealant bond.
The tooth is rinsed, dried again, and then coated with the sealant material.
The sealant hardens on its own or with a special curing light.

After application, sealants help keep food and plaque from settling into the tooth’s grooves, providing years of protection when paired with good brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.