Everyone is likely to get cavities, even if they brush and floss every day. Dental sealants keep cavities away by covering deep grooves in your back teeth. They’re quick, easy, and painless to apply. Keep reading to learn all about dental sealants in Kirkland and how we treat them.
What Are Dental Sealants?
They are thin, protective coatings we apply to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. These areas have deep grooves and pits that can easily trap food, plaque, and bacteria. Once a cavity forms, it can result in pain, infection, and the need for fillings or more complex treatments. Even with regular brushing, it’s hard to clean deep into those grooves. Dental sealants cover these areas and create a smooth surface that helps prevent tooth decay.
Dental sealants in Kirkland can also:
- Help avoid the need for fillings or crowns later
- Last up to 10 years with proper care
- Make brushing more effective
- Offer extra protection for kids’ newly erupted permanent teeth
They are typically made from strong, safe materials like bis-GMA resin or glass ionomer. Some types also release fluoride, which helps protect against future cavities.
Dental Sealant Treatment
The process is quick, painless, and non-invasive. Here’s what to typically expect:
- First, we remove any plaque or food from the surface to make sure it’s completely clean.
- We keep the tooth dry with cotton or a small barrier to prepare it for the next step.
- We apply a special gel. This gel lightly roughens the surface so the sealant can bond well.
- After a few seconds, we rinse off the gel and dry the tooth completely.
- We apply the sealant material directly into the grooves of the tooth.
- We use a curing light, a special light, to harden the material in seconds, which locks it into place.
- Finally, we make sure everything feels right and secure.
Click here to learn more about our Preventative Dental Care.
How Much Do They Cost?
The price of dental sealants in Kirkland depends on the number of teeth treated, the type of material, and the dental clinic you choose. Many dental insurance plans cover up to 100% of dental sealants for children and teenagers.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
They can last from five to ten years. But, the lifetime depends on your dental habits and oral health. Let’s see their lifetime based on different conditions:
| Oral Habits & Conditions | Estimated Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Brush twice daily, floss regularly, avoid hard/sticky foods | Up to 10 years |
| Good brushing habits, but chew ice or eat hard candy | Around 5–7 years |
| Irregular brushing, frequent hard/sticky foods | Around 3–5 years |
| Habit of teeth grinding (bruxism) | Around 3–5 years |
Best Dental Sealant Services in Kirkland, WA
If you are looking for high-quality dental sealant services, visit Kirkland Dental Excellence. Our team of experts knows how to keep smiles safe and healthy. We use high-quality materials and techniques for the best results. All you need to do is make an online appointment for a FREE consultation.
FAQs
What are dental sealants made of?
Most sealants are made from plastic resins, like bis-GMA or glass ionomer. These materials are strong, safe, and effective.
Are sealants covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover sealants for kids and teens. Coverage may vary, so contact us to confirm.
Are dental sealants safe?
Yes, sealants are safe. They are approved for dental use and do not harm your teeth.
Why do my teeth hurt after the sealants?
It’s rare for teeth to hurt after sealants. If they do, the bite might feel uneven. Let your dentist know so they can fix it quickly.
What does a sealant look like?
Sealants are usually clear or white. They blend with your teeth and don’t stand out when you talk or smile.
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