Dental Sealants If you're committed to maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile, you likely already brush twice a day, floss regularly, and schedule routine dental cleanings. But even with excellent oral hygiene, some areas of the mouth, especially the back molars, can be difficult to keep clean. That's where dental sealants come in. These thin, protective coatings are a powerful form of preventive care that can keep cavities at bay, preserve your natural teeth, and support long-term oral health.At McHenry Smile Center, we specialize in both preventive and cosmetic dentistry, offering treatments that not only enhance the appearance of your smile but also protect it from common dental problems. Whether you're exploring options like Invisalign, teeth whitening, or just staying on top of routine care, dental sealants may be the perfect addition to your preventive plan. What Are Dental Sealants?Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, specifically the premolars and molars. These back teeth have deep grooves and pits that make them prone to plaque buildup, even for patients who brush diligently. The sealant fills in these grooves and acts as a barrier, preventing food particles, bacteria, and acids from settling into the tooth surface. What Are They Used For?Sealants are primarily used to prevent tooth decay in molars and premolars. By sealing off the deep crevices of these teeth, the risk of developing cavities is significantly reduced. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children without sealants have three times more cavities than those with them. In addition to their preventive use, dental sealants can sometimes be used to stop the early stages of decay from developing further. If a tooth has minor demineralization (early signs of decay that haven't broken through the enamel), applying a sealant may help remineralize the enamel and protect the tooth without the need for a filling. Who Benefits from Dental Sealants?Dental sealants are most often recommended for: Children and TeensAs soon as a child's permanent molars come in, typically around age six for first molars and age 12 for second molars, sealants can be applied to protect those teeth during the cavity-prone years. AdultsMany adults who are prone to decay or who have deep grooves in their molars can also benefit from dental sealants, especially if their teeth are still free of fillings or existing cavities. Patients Undergoing Orthodontic TreatmentIf you're wearing Invisalign trays, sealants can add an extra layer of protection. Cosmetic Dentistry PatientsIf you've invested in cosmetic treatments like veneers, bonding, or whitening, it's important to protect your natural teeth as part of your overall smile strategy. Sealants help reduce the risk of decay, keeping your smile healthy and bright. How Are Dental Sealants Applied?One of the best things about dental sealants is how quick, easy, and painless they are to apply. No drilling. No anesthesia. No recovery time. Just protection you can count on. Here's how the process works:
Each tooth takes only a few minutes, and you can return to your normal activities like eating, drinking, and smiling right away. How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?Dental sealants are durable and can last between five to 10 years with proper care. However, they aren't permanent. Over time, normal chewing forces, hard foods, and age can cause sealants to wear down or chip. During your visits, we'll examine the condition of your sealants and let you know if any need to be touched up or replaced. How Can I Prolong My Dental Sealants?It is easy to protect your investment in preventive care by following these simple tips: Continue Regular Dental CleaningsA professional dental cleaning every six months will help remove plaque and tartar that could compromise your sealants. Avoid Hard and Sticky FoodsChewing ice, jawbreakers, or sticky candies can damage dental sealants. Use Fluoride ToothpasteEven with sealants, fluoride plays an important role in strengthening enamel and preventing decay. Brush and Floss DailyDental sealants only protect the chewing surfaces of teeth. Flossing helps prevent cavities between teeth and along the gumline. Can Dental Sealants Be Reapplied?Dental sealants can be replaced. If a sealant wears down or becomes chipped, it can be reapplied quickly during a routine visit. In many cases, we can even reapply sealants over areas that had previous ones, as long as the tooth structure remains intact. Many of our adult patients have had sealants applied or reapplied multiple times throughout their life as part of their long-term preventive care plan. It's a simple and effective way to maintain a healthy smile. Dental Sealants Offer Preventive CareAt McHenry Smile Center, we believe that prevention is the foundation of lasting oral health. That's why we offer a full suite of preventive services, from professional dental cleanings and exams to sealants, fluoride treatments, and education on at-home care. As your trusted cosmetic dentist, we also know that a healthy smile is a beautiful smile. Whether you're just starting to prioritize your oral health or looking to enhance your smile with Invisalign, veneers, or teeth whitening, sealants are a smart way to protect your teeth and your investment. Contact our office today at (815) 578-1000 to schedule your appointment or ask about dental sealants during your next visit. We're here to keep your teeth strong, your smile bright, and your confidence high. |
 Office Hours
Monday: 8:00am - 5:00pm Tuesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm Wednesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm Thursday: 8:00pm - 5:00pm Friday: 8:00am - 2:00pm Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
