What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are a plastic coating that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to shield them from decay.
Am I a candidate for dental sealants?
Children generally have dental sealants placed as their molars and premolars grow in. However, adults can also benefit from dental sealants placed on back teeth that do not have dental restorations or decay.
What can I expect during dental sealant placement?
To prepare for dental sealant placement, Dr. William Wilson will first clean the surfaces of the back teeth thoroughly. The teeth are then rinsed and dried. An acidic solution is used to roughen the chewing surfaces of the teeth and is then rinsed off. The roughening of the teeth allows the dental sealant to bond in place. The teeth are once again dried. Our doctor will then paint the dental sealant onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant may be cured using a special light.
How long do they last?
With suitable care, dental sealants can last for many years. If a dental sealant wears out or becomes cracked, our doctor can place a new dental sealant.
For more information about dental sealants in Chicago, Illinois, and to schedule a visit, please contact Chicago Osteopathic Hospital Dental Clinic PC at 773-947-4665.