Dental Sealants in Durham, NC

Dental sealants are a simple yet highly effective preventive treatment that helps protect teeth from decay. At Smile Design Modern Dentistry, we offer dental sealants for children, teens, and adults who are at higher risk for cavities—especially on hard-to-clean back molars. This painless procedure applies a thin, protective coating over the chewing surfaces of the teeth to block out food particles and bacteria.

Led by Dr. Erfan Imeni, our Durham practice combines expert preventive care with modern technology to help patients of all ages maintain healthy smiles. We proudly serve families throughout Durham, Brier Creek, RTP, and surrounding areas.

Sealants act as a barrier against decay by sealing the deep grooves and pits on the surface of molars and premolars—areas most vulnerable to cavity formation. These grooves can be difficult to clean thoroughly, even with regular brushing and flossing. By applying sealants, we reduce the risk of food and plaque accumulation that leads to decay.

Dental sealants are especially beneficial for:

• Children with newly erupted permanent molars
  
  
• Teens with deep grooves in their back teeth
  
  
• Adults with no existing decay or fillings on their molars
  
  
• Patients who are prone to cavities due to diet or oral hygiene challenges

We often recommend sealants during routine Dental Cleanings & Exams as part of a comprehensive preventive care plan.

The application of dental sealants is quick, non-invasive, and completely painless:

1. The teeth are cleaned and dried thoroughly.
   
   
2. A special gel is applied to help the sealant bond to the tooth.
   
   
3. The sealant is painted onto the surface and hardened with a curing light.

The entire process takes just a few minutes per tooth and requires no drilling or removal of enamel. Once hardened, the sealant creates a smooth surface that is easier to clean and more resistant to plaque buildup.

Dental sealants can last up to 5–10 years with proper care and regular checkups. During your visits, we will check for wear and reapply sealants if needed to ensure ongoing protection. Sealants can be an excellent supplement to other preventive treatments like Fluoride Applications and good oral hygiene habits.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants

1. At what age should my child get dental sealants?: Sealants are typically recommended when a child’s first and second permanent molars erupt, around ages 6 and 12.
   
   
2. Do dental sealants hurt?: No. The procedure is quick and painless, involving no drilling or anesthesia. It's one of the easiest ways to prevent cavities.
   
   
3. Can adults get dental sealants?: Yes. While most common in children, adults with healthy molars and no decay can benefit from sealants as a preventive measure.
   
   
4. Are dental sealants covered by insurance?: Many insurance plans cover sealants for children and sometimes teens. Our team can review your benefits and discuss financing options if needed.
   
   
5. How do I care for teeth with sealants?: Continue brushing and flossing daily and visit us regularly for exams. Sealants provide protection but do not replace good oral hygiene.