Experience the Dental Sealant Process with Dr. Wallace in Willoughby Hills, OH
Are you looking for a simple way to protect your teeth from decay? At Smile Brighter, our Willoughby Hills, OH dentist, Dr. Phillip Wallace specializes in preventive dental care that can save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run. Dental sealants are one of the most effective weapons in our cavity-fighting arsenal – a quick, painless procedure that creates an invisible shield over the vulnerable grooves of your back teeth. If you’re from Willoughby Hills, Mentor, Eastlake, Kirtland, Wickliffe, or nearby areas, this protective treatment could be the perfect addition to your family’s oral health routine.
To discover how this simple procedure performed by the best dentist in Willoughby Hills can prevent cavities before they start and maintain your healthy smile, contact Smile Brighter today by calling (440) 210-0999.
The Dental Sealant Application Process
Thorough Cleaning
Before applying sealants, Dr. Wallace ensures your teeth are completely clean. The teeth receiving sealants are thoroughly cleaned to remove any plaque, food particles, or debris from the grooves and depressions. This professional cleaning creates the perfect foundation for the sealant to adhere properly.
Preparation for Application
Once your teeth are clean and dry, Dr. Wallace applies a slightly acidic solution to the chewing surfaces. This solution creates microscopic roughness on the tooth’s surface—similar to sandpaper on wood—which helps the sealant bond more effectively to your teeth. After a few seconds, the solution is rinsed away and the teeth are dried again.
Applying the Sealant
The dental sealant material is carefully painted onto the enamel of each targeted tooth. The liquid sealant flows into the deep grooves and depressions of your molars and premolars. Dr. Wallace ensures all vulnerable areas are covered completely.
Curing the Sealant
A special curing light is used to harden the sealant material. This blue light activates the sealant, causing it to bond securely to your tooth and harden into a strong, plastic-like protective shield. This process takes just a few seconds per tooth.
Caring for Your Dental Sealants
After getting dental sealants at our Willoughby Hills office, you’ll be able to eat and drink normally right away—there’s no downtime! Dr. Wallace will check your sealants during regular dental checkups to ensure they’re intact and performing properly. With proper care, sealants can last up to 10 years before needing replacement.
Remember that sealants are just one part of a complete oral health routine. Continue brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, and visiting Dr. Wallace for regular checkups and dental cleanings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not at all! The dental sealant process is completely painless. There’s no drilling or removal of tooth structure, and no anesthesia is required. The entire procedure is quick and comfortable, making it ideal for patients of all ages, including children.
With proper care, dental sealants can last up to 10 years. However, they can wear down over time due to regular chewing. During your biannual checkups, the dentist will check your sealants for wear and tear and can reapply them as necessary.
No! Dental sealants are typically clear or slightly tinted to match your natural tooth color. Since they’re applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, they’re not visible when you smile or talk.
Many dental insurance plans cover sealants for children and teenagers, usually up to age 18. Coverage for adults varies by provider. The dental staff can help verify your insurance coverage and discuss payment options for any portion not covered by insurance.
Protect Your Smile Today with Dr. Wallace
Don’t wait until cavities develop to take action! Preventive care like dental sealants can save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run. If you’re in Willoughby Hills, Mentor, Eastlake, Wickliffe, or Kirtland, schedule an appointment with our qualified dentist in Willoughby Hills, OH, by calling (440) 210-0999 to learn if dental sealants are right for you or your children. Our team is committed to providing the highest quality preventive dental care in a comfortable, friendly environment.
Your healthier smile is just one appointment away at the best dentist in Willoughby Hills, OH!