Dental sealants help protect cavity-prone teeth by covering the deep grooves where food particles and bacteria often collect. At The Dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Kirian offers dental sealants for children, teens and adults in Newark, Ohio, as part of a preventive approach to long-term oral health.
If you or your child are prone to cavities, sealants may be a simple way to add extra protection to the back teeth. Call 740-366-1236 to schedule a visit with our dentist.
Extra Protection Against Cavities
Dental sealants are thin protective coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars. These back teeth often have deep pits and grooves that can be difficult to clean thoroughly with a toothbrush, especially for children.
Once applied, the sealant bonds to the tooth surface and helps block out plaque, bacteria and food particles. This added barrier can lower the risk of decay in areas that are more vulnerable to cavities.
Who Can Benefit From Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are often recommended for children and teenagers as soon as their permanent molars come in. However, adults may also benefit if their back teeth have deep grooves and do not already have decay or fillings in the areas being sealed.
Sealants may be helpful for:
- Children with newly erupted permanent molars
- Teens who are at higher risk for cavities
- Adults with deep grooves in the back teeth
- Patients who have difficulty keeping molars clean
- Patients with a history of frequent cavities
- Families who want to strengthen their preventive care routine
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Sealants are a simple, conservative preventive treatment that can help reduce the risk of cavities in the chewing surfaces of back teeth.
- Cavity prevention: Sealants help keep bacteria and food particles out of deep grooves in the molars.
- Quick application: The process is usually completed in one visit.
- No drilling or anesthesia: Sealants are noninvasive and comfortable to place.
- Protection for hard-to-clean areas: Back teeth can be difficult to brush thoroughly, especially for children.
- Support for long-term oral health: Preventing cavities can help avoid more involved dental treatment later.
What to Expect During Sealant Placement
Applying dental sealants is straightforward and comfortable. First, the teeth are cleaned and dried. A conditioning solution is placed on the chewing surfaces to help the sealant bond properly. The teeth are then rinsed and dried again.
The sealant material is painted onto the grooves of the tooth and hardened, often with a curing light. Once complete, the sealant forms a smooth protective layer. You can eat, drink and return to normal activities right away.
Dental Sealants for Children
Children are often good candidates for sealants because newly erupted permanent molars can be especially vulnerable to cavities. These teeth come in around ages 6 and 12, and their grooves can trap plaque even when children are brushing regularly.
Sealants do not replace brushing, flossing or regular dental visits, but they can provide added protection during the years when children are still developing strong oral hygiene habits.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Dental sealants can last for several years with good care. During routine dental cleanings and exams, our team will check the sealants to make sure they are still intact and providing protection.
If a sealant becomes worn or chipped, it can often be repaired or replaced. Maintaining regular visits allows our team to monitor your sealants and your overall cavity risk over time.
Why Choose The Dentist for Preventive Dental Care?
Preventive care is most effective when it is personalized to each patient’s age, habits and cavity risk. Dr. Kirian earned his dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry after completing his bachelor’s degree at Capital University. During his time at OSU, he had the honor of serving as one of two team dentists for the athletic department.
He is a member of the American Dental Association®, Ohio Dental Association, Knox-Licking County Dental Association, Ohio State University Dental Alumni Association and Central Ohio Dental Forum, part of the Seattle Study Club. He has been named to Top Dentists of Central Ohio each year since 2012 and completes many hours of continuing education to stay current with changing dental techniques and technology.
Patients in Newark, OH, can expect practical prevention-focused care designed to help protect teeth and reduce the need for more complex treatment later.
Related Services
Dental sealants are one part of a strong preventive care plan. Depending on your needs, you may also want to learn more about:
- General and family dentistry
- Dental cleanings and exams
- Fluoride treatment
- Composite dental fillings
- Contact our office
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants
What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are thin protective coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. They help block food particles and bacteria from settling into deep grooves.
Who should get dental sealants?
Children and teens are common candidates, especially when permanent molars come in. Adults with deep grooves in their back teeth may also benefit if those teeth do not already have decay or fillings in the areas being sealed.
Do dental sealants hurt?
No. Sealant placement is quick, comfortable and does not require drilling or anesthesia.
How long do dental sealants last?
Sealants can last for several years, but they should be checked during routine dental visits. If a sealant wears down or chips, it may be repaired or replaced.
Can adults get dental sealants?
Yes. Adults with cavity-prone back teeth or deep grooves may benefit from sealants if the teeth are healthy enough for treatment.
Do sealants replace brushing and flossing?
No. Sealants add protection to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, but daily brushing, flossing and regular dental visits are still important for preventing cavities and gum disease.
Schedule a Dental Sealant Visit
If you want to help protect your child’s teeth or reduce your own risk of cavities, dental sealants may be a simple preventive option. Call 740-366-1236 today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Newark, Ohio.