Dental Sealants

Dr. Skalnik recommends placement of sealants on permanent molars and occasionally premolars depending on anatomy. Sealants can be placed on children ages 4-14, ideally within 6 months of the permanent tooth coming in.

The pits and grooves of your teeth are prime areas for opportunistic decay. Even regular brushing sometimes misses some of these intricate structures on the chewing surfaces of your teeth.

Enter sealants, which are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces designed to prevent the intrusion of bacteria and other debris into the deep crevices on the tops of your teeth.

Sealants actually were developed about 50 years ago, but didn’t become commonly used until the 1970s. Today, sealants are becoming widely popular and effective; young children are great candidates for preventative measures like sealants because in many cases, decay has not set in. Even on teeth where decay is present, sealants have been shown to fight additional damage.

Sealants are applied by first cleaning the tooth surface. The procedure is followed by etching the tooth with an abrasive substance, which allows the sealant to better adhere. After the sealant is applied, a warm light source is directed to the site to promote faster drying. Sealants usually need re-application every five to 10 years.

Learn More About Sealants From Your Tuscaloosa Dentist

At Dental Care South in Tuscaloosa, AL our staff is committed to helping our patients maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. Take the steps to protect your smile, and contact us today to find out if sealants are right for you. Take care of your oral health and make an appointment at your local Tuscaloosa dentist today!