Dental Sealants in Chicago and Hinsdale, IL

Dental sealants are an easy procedure to protect your teeth from cavities and decay. Sealants are thin, flexible plastic coatings that can be put on the tops of your back teeth (molars and premolars). Once they're placed, sealants block tartar, plaque, bacteria, and food particles to further prevent several dental issues, including cavities. Dental sealants may stay on for a long time if properly cared for with a good oral hygiene routine at home. Sealants not only maintain the health of your mouth and lower the risk of dental cavities, but they may also save you from expensive treatments at your regular dental examinations at Weller Dental. Talk to dentist Dr. Jeffrey Weller at your dental examination in our Chicago or Hinsdale, IL office to help you decide if dental sealants are needed for your family.

At Weller Dental, we recommend sealants for many of our patients in Chicago and Hinsdale, IL, as an extra protective step for teeth. These sealants provide many advantages for our patients, like:

• Significant protection from cavities
• A subtle, natural-looking coating
• Prevention of debris and plaque accumulation
• Saving time and cost by protecting your natural smile

The best candidates for sealants are patients who are prone to developing oral diseases or cavities. In many cases, dental sealants are suggested for those who may not have a good oral hygiene routine or have a history of developing decay between dental appointments. Dental sealant application is a simple, quick treatment that usually doesn't need sedation or anesthesia, making it a great procedure for many patients.

During your consult, Dr. Weller will first examine your teeth to decide if dental sealants are a good treatment for you. Before the application, one of our dental hygienists will clean and polish your teeth to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar. Next, Dr. Weller will use a brush to apply the sealant and set the material using a specialized light. After the application is set, he will check if your dental sealant has settled into the correct position. After the treatment, patients can drink liquids and eat normal foods the same day. No special care is needed once the sealants are in place, however, sticky candy, hard or sharp objects such as ice, and gum can possibly damage or pull them out. Dr. Weller reminds patients to be mindful when eating certain foods, similar to all patients trying to adhere to an optimal oral health regime. 

After your appointment, you will be free to resume your normal daily activities. It's important for you to develop a good oral care plan, including brushing your teeth two times each day, flossing, and mouthwash use. You should try to avoid putting heavy pressure on your back teeth or consuming foods that are sticky. With ideal care, dental sealants may last for many years. At your annual dental examination at Weller Dental, Dr. Weller will decide if your sealants should be applied again.

Dental sealants are a preventive treatment and many dental insurances pay for part of the cost in patients under a certain age. Coverage can vary, particularly in adults, so a team member will figure out your coverage by talking to your insurance company and then letting you know your personal cost. Weller Dental takes several methods of payment and we can assist you with low-interest financing for medical treatments.

Is getting dental sealants painful?

No, it isn't. The dental sealants are simply brushed onto your teeth in a quick, easy procedure that is completely comfortable.

Can adults get dental sealants?

Yes, they can. While it is more common for children and teens to get dental sealants to protect their teeth, adults can also benefit from the protection against tooth decay and cavities that dental sealants provide.

How long do dental sealants last?

Depending on your oral health, on average, dental sealants can last up to seven years (or up to nine years in some cases) before they may need to be reapplied. However, you will still need to follow your regular brushing and flossing routine and come to Weller Dental for your regular dental checkups.

You may benefit from dental sealants to maintain general dental health. Sealants are a great treatment to avoid more extensive procedures, such as fillings and crowns. A quick and easy procedure, dental sealants can help your family experience easier dental exams and improved general health. To get more information about sealants, contact our Chicago or Hinsdale, IL dental office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Weller.