At Landman Dental Associates in Chicago, IL, we believe prevention is the key to long-lasting oral health. One of the most effective, painless, and affordable preventative treatments we offer is dental sealants. But what exactly are dental sealants, and how do they help protect your teeth from cavities? In this article, we’ll break it all down for you—whether you’re a parent considering sealants for your child or an adult looking for ways to prevent tooth decay.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made from plastic or other dental materials that are painted onto the chewing surfaces of your back teeth—specifically the molars and premolars. These areas are prone to cavities because of their deep grooves and pits that can easily trap food particles and bacteria.

Once applied, the sealant acts as a barrier, shielding the enamel from plaque, acids, and food debris. This significantly lowers the risk of developing cavities in these hard-to-reach areas.

How Do Dental Sealants Work?

The application of a dental sealant is quick, painless, and non-invasive. Here’s how the process typically works at Landman Dental Associates:

1. Cleaning the Teeth: First, the dentist or hygienist thoroughly cleans the teeth to remove any plaque or food particles.
2. Preparing the Tooth Surface: A special solution is applied to the tooth to roughen the surface, which helps the sealant bond properly.
3. Rinsing and Drying: The tooth is rinsed and dried to ensure the sealant adheres effectively.
4. Applying the Sealant: The sealant material is painted onto the tooth’s surface and then cured with a special blue light that hardens the material.
5. Final Check: The dentist will make sure the sealant is properly set and does not interfere with your bite.

Who Should Get Dental Sealants?

While children and teenagers are the most common recipients of dental sealants, adults can benefit from them too. Here’s a breakdown of who should consider getting sealants:

1. Children (Ages 6–14)

• Sealants are especially effective when applied to permanent molars as soon as they erupt.

• Helps prevent cavities during the cavity-prone years of childhood.

2. Adults

• Adults without fillings or decay in their molars can benefit from sealants.

• Especially helpful for those with deep grooves in their teeth.

3. High-Risk Patients: Anyone with a history of frequent cavities or weakened enamel may be a good candidate for dental sealants.

The Benefits of Dental Sealants

There are plenty of reasons why dental sealants are a smart preventative measure:

• Cavity Prevention: According to the CDC, sealants reduce the risk of decay in molars by nearly 80%.
• Pain-Free and Non-Invasive: No drilling, no anesthesia—just a few minutes to a healthier smile.
• Cost-Effective: Preventing a cavity now saves you the cost of a filling, root canal, or crown down the road.
• Long-Lasting Protection: With proper care, sealants can last 5 to 10 years before needing a touch-up.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Dental sealants are durable and long-lasting, but they’re not permanent. With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups at Landman Dental Associates, sealants can last up to a decade.

However, like any dental work, they can wear down over time due to chewing and grinding. During your regular cleanings, we’ll check your sealants for any chips or wear and reapply them if necessary.

Are Dental Sealants Safe?

Yes, dental sealants are completely safe. Some concerns have been raised about BPA (Bisphenol A), but the amount present in dental sealants is extremely low—much lower than typical exposure levels from common items like plastic bottles. The American Dental Association (ADA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) both support the use of dental sealants as a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay.

Dental Sealants vs. Fillings: What’s the Difference?

It’s important to understand that dental sealants are preventive, whereas fillings are restorative. A sealant is applied to a healthy tooth to prevent decay, while a filling is used to repair a tooth that already has a cavity.

In other words:

• Sealants prevent cavities.
• Fillings treat cavities.

Wouldn’t you rather stop a cavity before it starts?

Why Choose Landman Dental Associates in Chicago, IL?

At Landman Dental Associates, we’re passionate about helping our Chicago community maintain strong, healthy smiles. Our experienced team uses the latest dental technologies and techniques to ensure that treatments like sealants are safe, fast, and effective.

We take the time to:

• Educate our patients about prevention
• Offer personalized treatment plans
• Provide gentle, family-friendly care for all ages

Ready to Protect Your Smile?

Whether you’re a parent looking out for your child’s dental future or an adult seeking extra protection against decay, dental sealants are a smart investment in your oral health.

Visit Landman Dental Associates in Chicago, IL to learn more about how sealants can keep you and your family smiling confidently for years to come.