Dental Sealants

At The Grove City Center for Dentistry, we recommend all children receive dental sealants.

Sealants are an easy, affordable way to protect your teeth from decay and cavities. They “cover and fill” the deep grooves of the teeth and act as a barrier, protecting each tooth’s enamel and the grooves of the teeth from food and plaque that brushing and flossing can’t reach. Because Sealants are easy to apply, it only takes a few minutes to seal each tooth. They hold up well under normal chewing and can last several years before a reapplication is necessary.

While Dr. Simone and Dr. Lowe recommend sealants for kids, adults also can benefit from sealants to prevent tooth decay.

When should my child get dental sealants?

At GCCD, we agree with the American Dental Association that the earlier your child gets sealants, the better it is for their teeth. According to the CDC, sealants are shown to reduce the risk of decay in molars by 80%. Learn more about your child’s first visit to the dentist by reading our blog.

Adults can get sealants, too! 

How are dental sealants applied?

Our skilled dental hygiene team will apply dental sealants at your regular dental exam and check-up. Dr. Simone and Dr. Lowe will examine your teeth to identify any existing decay. If they do not see any decay, our hygienists will then apply a durable, plastic “shell” or coating directly onto the biting surfaces of your teeth. Then we will use a special ultraviolet light to harden the sealant atop our teeth. This procedure is completely pain-free.

How long do dental sealants last?

Your dental sealants can last up to 10 years or longer. However, maintaining them is dependent on scheduling regular dental exams and cleanings with Dr. Simone and Dr. Lowe.

How do dental sealants work?

Dental sealants work by covering or sealing off the grooves and pits on the surfaces of your teeth. These areas are where bacteria collect because they are hard to clean, especially for children and older adults.

How often should sealants be reapplied?

If the sealant is still intact and performing as expected, you can expect a sealant to last for years. We will evaluate the status of the sealant during your routine dental exams to determine if touch-ups or reapplications are necessary.