Dental Sealants in Midland, MI

Spacing in the top of the molars usually contains more bacteria and buildup and are more susceptible to ending up with cavities over time. Dental sealants, a routine aspect of preventive dentistry, are applied to the molars as a way to safeguard them from cavities resulting from decay. These fine protective coatings are composed of a clear or tooth-colored material that is then applied to the chewing surfaces of your permanent molars. Once set, sealants help protect the enamel and provide a smoother exterior that is easier to brush. Dental sealants from Knight Dental Care don't just protect from tooth decay, but they might also lessen your kids' needs for fillings or other corrective care in the future. Speak with cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Edward Knight at your next dental appointment at our Midland, MI practice to find out if you or your child might benefit from dental sealants.

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, especially among children. Sealants provide a barrier against cavities and make it easier to clean the teeth. Knight Dental Care is proud to offer dental sealants for the following reasons:

• Long-term protection: Dental sealants can last for up to nine years with proper care.
• Cost-effective: Sealants are much less expensive than fillings or crowns, which may be necessary if cavities are not prevented.
• Easy to apply: The sealant material is brushed onto the teeth and then hardened with a special light. The entire process only takes a few minutes.
• Non-invasive: There is no drilling or invasive procedures required for dental sealants.
• Safe: Dental sealants are made of high-quality materials considered safe for children and adults.

Children between the ages of 6 – 12 are the most likely to develop decay on the occlusive surfaces of their permanent molars, making them great candidates to receive dental sealants. Although, more mature patients may also consider getting dental sealants, for example, if you struggle with maintaining good oral hygiene regimens or are predisposed to tooth decay. At Knight Dental Care, the application of dental sealants is a fast, uncomplicated treatment that usually needs no sedation. Set up a consultation, and someone on our dental team can assess you to determine if you may benefit from this easy and effective solution.

Before beginning, Dr. Knight will need to evaluate your teeth to learn if dental sealants are the proper solution for you or your children. To prepare your teeth for dental sealants, a member of our staff will clean your teeth to remove any buildup, food particles, and bacteria from chewing surfaces. Your teeth will be dried, and a small sheet of sealant liquid will be distributed precisely into the fissures with a tiny brush. An advanced curing light is then positioned on top of the tooth to ossify the sealant, covering within about 10 – 20 seconds. As soon as every sealant is set, our team will assess your jaws for alignment and give you instructions on how to best care for your dental sealants. 

After your sealant placement has concluded, you or your little one can carry on with your daily activities. Throughout the next few days, it will be critical to avoid eating sticky or hard foods to help keep your dental sealants in good shape as they set into your molars. Dr. Knight also urges individuals to keep up with an excellent oral wellness routine, like flossing and brushing their teeth at least two times daily. When tended to appropriately, dental sealants can stay in good shape for several years. Our professionals at Knight Dental Care will evaluate your mouth during once-yearly oral evaluations and let you know if the sealants should be redone.

How long do dental sealants last?

Dental sealants typically last between 5 – 9 years after they’ve been placed on your teeth. Sometimes, however, they do fall off, and that’s why you still need them checked during your regular dental exams at Knight Dental Care.

Are dental sealants worth it?

Dental sealants are an excellent way to help prevent tooth decay and cavities in the top spaces of the molars, which are more susceptible to the buildup of bacteria and plaque.

Do adults need dental sealants?

While placing sealants is more common for children and teens, adults can also benefit from sealants since they are always at risk for developing tooth decay and cavities.

Are dental sealants harmful?

One of the main concerns some people may have with dental sealants is they contain trace amounts of bisphenol acid (BPA). But research has shown that since the amount is so small, the benefits of dental sealants outweigh any possible negative effects, especially since the BPA usually only lasts around three hours after the sealants are placed.

Ward off decay and allow your family to maintain radiant, hygienic smiles for years to come. Dental sealants are a fast, easy solution at Knight Dental Care that can help you maintain good oral health and wellness and might even decrease the need for future dental treatments. To schedule an exam or for questions about cost, financing, or insurance, call Knight Dental Care today.