Dental Sealants Torrance CA | Dental Sealants in Torrance
Dental Sealants Torrance CA

Dental Sealants

Dental Sealants Torrance, CA

Do you want to reduce the chance that your child will get cavities in the South Bay? Dental sealants are a highly safe method of proactively protecting teeth before cavities occur. At Dentist of Torrance, we have successfully reduced instances of cavities in our children's dental patients with affordable dental sealants.

What Are Dental Sealants?

One of the tools we use in our cavity-prevention arsenal at Dentist of Torrance is dental sealants. Dental sealants are a way to protect otherwise vulnerable teeth that might be prone to cavities. A sealant in dentistry is a special protective coating that is painted over certain teeth to seal and protect them.

Teeth such as the molars are particularly prone to cavity formation due to their bumpy, irregular surface. Dental sealants cover up and smooth out these bumps so that bacteria do not collect and fester on the tooth. The sealant also strengthens the tooth to reduce cavities.

Who Can Benefit From a Dental Sealant?

While dental sealants can sometimes be utilized to prevent cavities in adults, they are most commonly used in children. Sealants are usually applied after the child’s permanent teeth have erupted. Not every child may need dental sealants. Sealants are very helpful, however, for children who are prone to cavities, contain deep grooves in their molars, and/or have issues maintaining proper dental hygiene.

At What Age Should Dental Sealants Be First Used?

One of the best times to begin using dental sealants is immediately after the first permanent molars erupt in the mouth, which is around the age of six. We would then recommend more dental sealants when the second molars erupt around age 12.

Dental Sealants in Torrance CA
Dental Sealants Torrance CA

How Are Dental Sealants Applied?

Dental sealant application is relatively fast and painless. The teeth are first cleaned and prepared, and any current tooth decay is removed. A mild etching of the tooth occurs and then a bonding solution is placed on teeth to help the dental sealant adhere better. After the dental sealant is applied to the teeth, a setting light is used to harden the sealant.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Dental sealants don’t last forever but they do last a long time, often 10 years or longer. They can wear down over time with habits such as teeth grinding. Acid due to diet or reflux can also wear down dental sealants prematurely.

Do Dental Sealants Need Special Care?

Dental sealants are pretty sturdy – after all, they are designed to strengthen the teeth! That said, it is a good idea to maintain them with as much care as possible. Like regular teeth, they can stain when dark drinks such as coffee or tea are consumed, as well as foods like blackberries. Extremely chewy or hard foods could also compromise the sealant. We will provide detailed instructions on taking care of dental sealants and may recommend remineralizing toothpaste as well.

What Do Dental Sealants Cost in the South Bay?

The cost of a dental sealant on average is quite affordable, running approximately $30-60 for each tooth application, assuming no dental insurance is available. For families with dental insurance, dental sealants are often a covered benefit for children and teens under age 18. This is because dental sealants are so effective at reducing cavities, and thus save on costs in the long run.

Some children in low-income families may be available for CDC-funded dental sealants; contact our front office for more information.

South Bay Dental Sealants at Dentist of Torrance

If you live in the South Bay area, and have a child who might benefit from dental sealants, contact us at Dentist of Torrance today by calling 310-651-7660 to set up an appointment.

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