Dental Sealants in Lakewood, CO

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that flow into the natural pits and fissures of your back teeth. Once cured with a special blue light, the material hardens into a smooth surface. This creates a barrier that keeps food and bacteria out of hard-to-brush grooves, reducing the risk of cavities. Sealants are not the same as fillings — a filling repairs an area after decay has already occurred, while a sealant works to prevent decay from starting.

Who Typically Benefits

Sealants are often placed soon after the first and second permanent molars erupt, typically around ages 6 and 12. They are also helpful for adults with cavity-prone grooves, early enamel changes that do not require a filling, or a history of frequent decay.

What Sealants Are Made Of

Most sealants are made of a tooth-colored resin that bonds to enamel. Modern materials are designed for durability and safety. Research supports their safety profile, and exposure to any trace components during placement is minimal and well within established guidelines.

• Cavity prevention is the primary benefit on molars and premolars with deep grooves.
• Tooth structure is preserved because no drilling is needed when placing a sealant.
• Comfort is high since the procedure is painless and noninvasive.
• Speed is a plus because most sealants take only a few minutes per tooth.
• Longevity is strong, with many sealants lasting several years before touch-ups.
• Support for oral hygiene is improved by smoothing hard-to-clean pits and fissures.
• Complement to fluoride is helpful, as sealants and fluoride work together to protect enamel.

Here is a clear overview of each step:

• Cleaning: The tooth is polished to remove plaque and debris.
• Isolation: Cotton or a soft shield keeps the area dry from saliva.
• Etching: A gentle gel prepares enamel to help the sealant bond.
• Rinsing and drying: The tooth is rinsed and kept dry for placement.
• Application: Liquid sealant flows into the pits and fissures.
• Curing: A blue light hardens the material within seconds.
• Final check: The bite is checked and any excess is smoothed.

The entire process is comfortable and typically takes only one visit.

Most patients feel no discomfort during sealant placement. The procedure requires no anesthesia or drilling. You can eat and drink normally right after. Sealants are checked at each dental visit and can be reapplied if they show wear or chipping. Even partial sealants continue to offer some protection against decay. With proper care and regular checkups, sealants can protect teeth for up to 10 years.