Sealants: Effective Cavity Prevention at Morgan Family Dental in Metairie

Sealants play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay on the biting surfaces of chewing teeth. These surfaces contain natural pits and grooves, which can trap food particles and bacteria, making them difficult to remove with a toothbrush.

Although teeth are protected by enamel, bacteria trapped in deep pits and grooves can damage it, leading to cavities that may necessitate costly and potentially painful restorative work. Sealants are particularly recommended for children as their adult teeth replace primary teeth, providing early protection and helping to maintain a cavity-free smile throughout their school years.

What Is a Dental Sealant?

A dental sealant is a simple procedure involving the application of a clear or tooth-colored acrylic coating onto the tooth’s surface. This effectively seals the deep grooves where decay is most likely to occur. With a lower cost than conventional fillings and no need for anesthetics or drilling, sealants are among our most valuable preventive tools.

Sealants can last for several years, and studies show that the risk of developing a cavity on a sealed tooth is reduced by half in the first five years post-procedure. During regular cleaning appointments, we will examine your sealants for signs of wear or damage and recommend any necessary replacements or additional treatments.

Procedure Overview

Sealant placement is a painless and quick process, typically applied to molars. Your dentist will first clean the tooth’s biting surface, ensuring all grooves are debris-free. The tooth surface may be roughened for better sealant adhesion. After rinsing and drying the tooth, the dentist applies the sealant and dries it to complete the procedure.

In some cases, we may recommend applying a sealant to a child’s primary tooth, especially if there is a high risk of decay. Primary teeth guide adult teeth into their proper positions, and premature loss or extraction of primary teeth can lead to misalignment. By applying sealants to at-risk primary teeth, we promote long-term dental health and a smooth transition to healthy adult teeth.

Sealants, combined with regular cleanings, a diligent at-home hygiene routine, and consistent fluoride usage, form an essential part of maintaining healthy, cavity-free teeth.