Protect Your Smile Before Cavities Start

Preventing tooth decay is always better than treating it, and dental sealants are one of the most effective tools we have for doing exactly that. At My Dentist & Orthodontist, your trusted dentist in San Bernardino, we offer professional dental sealants for children and adults who want to get ahead of cavities before they ever have a chance to form. If you’ve been looking for a simple, affordable way to strengthen your family’s protection against tooth decay, sealants may be the perfect fit.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made of a safe, tooth-colored resin material. They are painted directly onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, specifically the molars and premolars, where decay most commonly starts. The sealant bonds quickly into the grooves and pits of the tooth, creating a smooth surface that’s much easier to clean and far more resistant to bacteria and food particles.

The back teeth have natural ridges and depressions that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush, no matter how diligent your brushing routine is. Dental sealants fill in those grooves, essentially sealing out the things that cause cavities in the first place.

Who Should Get Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers, since the years between 6 and 14 are when cavity risk tends to be highest. However, adults without existing decay or fillings in their molars can benefit from sealants as well. As a dentist in San Bernardino serving patients of all ages, we evaluate each person individually to determine whether sealants are a good fit. Generally, sealants are a smart choice for anyone who:

• Has deep grooves or pits in their back teeth
• Has a history of cavities or is at higher risk for decay
• Wants a proactive, preventative approach to oral health
• Is a child or teen entering their cavity-prone years
• Prefers to minimize the need for future dental work

What to Expect During the Procedure

Getting dental sealants is quick, comfortable, and completely painless. There are no needles, no drilling, and no recovery time. Here is what happens during a typical sealant appointment at our San Bernardino office:

1. Cleaning: The teeth receiving sealants are thoroughly cleaned and dried to ensure proper bonding.
2. Preparation: A mild acidic solution is briefly applied to the chewing surfaces to slightly roughen them, which helps the sealant adhere more effectively.
3. Application: The sealant material is carefully painted onto each tooth and allowed to flow into the natural grooves and depressions.
4. Curing: A special curing light hardens the sealant in a matter of seconds, bonding it firmly to the tooth surface.

The entire process usually takes only a few minutes per tooth. Most patients walk in and out of our office in under an hour with their new protection already in place.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

With proper care, dental sealants can last up to 10 years. Our team checks the condition of your sealants at each routine visit to make sure they remain intact and effective. If a sealant chips or wears down over time, it can be easily touched up or reapplied.

Sealants do not require any special maintenance beyond your regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleaning schedule. They are designed to hold up against normal chewing while continuing to protect the tooth underneath.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants

Are dental sealants safe?

Yes. Dental sealants have been used safely for decades and are recommended by the American Dental Association. The materials used are BPA-free and biocompatible, making them a worry-free option for both children and adults.

Do sealants work on teeth that already have fillings?

Dental sealants are most effective on teeth that are free from decay and existing restorations. If a tooth already has a filling or cavity, we may recommend a different treatment approach. Our team will assess your teeth and let you know which options are best suited for you.

Can adults get dental sealants?

Absolutely. While sealants are commonly associated with children’s dentistry, adults who have healthy, unfilled molars can benefit just as much from the added protection sealants provide.

Will insurance cover dental sealants?

Many dental insurance plans cover sealants for children, and some cover them for adults as well. Our team is happy to help you verify your benefits before your appointment. We accept all PPO dental insurance and Medi-Cal Dental.

Take a Proactive Step Toward Better Oral Health

Dental sealants are one of the simplest and most cost-effective investments you can make in your family’s oral health. A few minutes in our chair today can save you from fillings, crowns, or other more involved treatments down the road.

As a dentist in San Bernardino that families have trusted since 2000, My Dentist & Orthodontist is committed to providing preventative care that keeps your smile strong for years to come. Whether you are bringing in your child for their first sealants or exploring options for yourself, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Call us at our San Bernardino office or visit our website to schedule your appointment. We make it easy to get the preventative care your family deserves.