Dental Sealants in Oak Lawn, IL
Dental sealants are a fast, non-invasive way to prevent tooth decay in the back teeth, especially for children and teens. At Inside The Smile, we offer sealants as part of our preventive care services to help patients in Oak Lawn and surrounding areas keep their molars protected from cavities and long-term damage.
The deep grooves on chewing surfaces can be hard to clean, even with good brushing habits. Sealants act as a barrier, sealing out plaque and food particles before they have a chance to cause decay.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Sealants are thin, protective coatings made from a medical-grade resin that is painted onto the surface of back teeth — primarily premolars and molars. Once applied, the material is hardened using a curing light, creating a smooth surface that is easier to clean and more resistant to plaque buildup.
Sealants are typically applied in a single visit, without the need for drilling, numbing, or discomfort. They’re one of the most effective preventive tools available in modern general dentistry.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
While dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teens, some adults may also benefit from them — especially those with deep grooves or a history of frequent cavities.
Sealants are ideal for:
- Children getting their first permanent molars (usually around age 6)
- Pre-teens and teens with erupting adult molars
- Adults with deep pits in their molars or a history of decay
- Patients undergoing fluoride treatment who want added protection
- Families looking for long-term cavity prevention without invasive procedures
We often apply sealants during a routine dental cleaning & exam, particularly if we see that molars are at risk or newly erupted.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants offer several long-term benefits, especially when applied early:
- Prevent 80% of cavities in molars for up to two years, and continue to offer protection for up to 9 years
- Reduce the need for restorative care like fillings or crowns
- Protect hard-to-brush areas in the back of the mouth
- Save on long-term dental costs by avoiding decay-related treatments
- Provide a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that supports better hygiene
Sealants are especially valuable for younger patients who are still developing their brushing skills and may miss those hard-to-reach back teeth.
Are Sealants Safe?
Yes — dental sealants have been used safely and effectively for decades. The materials used are BPA-free, and the procedure is painless and non-invasive. Once applied, sealants are barely noticeable and do not affect how teeth feel when chewing or biting.
Dr. Michael B. Smith will always assess your child’s dental development before recommending sealants. If you're concerned about the safety or necessity of sealants, our team is happy to walk you through the benefits and alternatives during your visit.
Caring for Teeth with Sealants
Teeth with sealants still need regular brushing, flossing, and professional care. We’ll check your sealants at every preventive visit and reapply them if needed. To maximize the lifespan of the sealant, avoid habits like chewing on hard objects or grinding your teeth — if bruxism is a concern, we may recommend Bruxism Treatment as a protective measure.
Sealants are just one part of a broader preventive care strategy that may also include fluoride, routine exams, and personalized oral hygiene coaching.
FAQs
How long do dental sealants last?
Sealants can protect teeth for several years, often up to 5–9 years with proper care. We’ll check them at each appointment and recommend reapplication if they start to wear down.
Do sealants replace the need for brushing?
No. Sealants are a protective supplement — not a replacement — for daily brushing and flossing. They help keep the chewing surfaces of molars clean but don’t protect between the teeth or at the gumline.
Are sealants covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover sealants for children under 18, particularly for newly erupted molars. We’ll review your benefits and discuss any out-of-pocket costs prior to treatment.
Can adults get sealants?
Yes. While less common, adults with deep grooves or a history of decay can benefit from sealants. If you’ve had cavities in your back teeth or are prone to enamel erosion, we may recommend sealants as a preventive step.
Our clinic offers multiple booking options. You can schedule online through our website, call our reception, or email for urgent consultations. We aim to respond within 24 hours.
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Schedule Your Sealant Appointment in Oak Lawn
Dental sealants are a smart, simple way to prevent cavities and protect growing smiles. Whether you're a parent scheduling your child's first molar sealants or an adult interested in added protection, our team at Inside The Smile is here to help.