Dental Sealants in Chicago, IL
At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, we provide dental sealants as a preventive treatment to protect your teeth from decay and cavities, especially for children and teens. Sealants create a barrier that shields the grooves where bacteria can collect.
Expert Preventive Care for All Ages
Led by Dr. Helen Chan, D.M.D., M.Sc., our clinic serves Chinatown, The Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, West Loop, and Wicker Park/Bucktown, offering expert care to help maintain your healthy smile.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, usually the molars and premolars. These areas are more prone to cavities because of the deep grooves and pits where food particles and plaque can accumulate. Once applied, the sealant bonds with the tooth’s surface, creating a protective shield that blocks out harmful bacteria and acids.
Why Should You Consider Dental Sealants?
Sealants are a highly effective way to prevent cavities and tooth decay, especially in children and teens who may not yet have mastered brushing and flossing effectively. However, adults who are cavity-prone can also benefit from sealants. Here are a few reasons why dental sealants are a smart choice:
- Cavity Prevention: Sealants reduce the risk of cavities in the molars and premolars, areas that are harder to clean thoroughly.
- Long-Lasting Protection: Once applied, sealants can last several years, providing ongoing protection against decay.
- Cost-Effective: Sealants can prevent the need for more costly dental treatments down the road, such as fillings or crowns.
- Painless Procedure: The application of dental sealants is quick, easy, and completely painless, making it an ideal treatment for patients of all ages.
The Dental Sealant Process at Wentworth Dental Clinic
At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, applying sealants is a quick and straightforward procedure that can be done during a regular check-up. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Teeth Cleaning
First, the teeth receiving the sealants will be thoroughly cleaned to remove any plaque, food particles, or debris. This ensures the sealant bonds properly to the tooth’s surface.
2. Preparing the Tooth
After cleaning, the tooth is dried, and a special solution is applied to roughen the surface slightly. This helps the sealant adhere securely to the tooth.
3. Sealant Application
Next, the sealant is carefully painted onto the chewing surface of the tooth, filling in any grooves or pits. The material is then hardened with a curing light, creating a protective shield.
4. Final Check
Once the sealant is fully set, Dr. Chan will check your bite to ensure everything feels comfortable and smooth.
The entire process takes only a few minutes per tooth, and no numbing is required. You’ll leave the office with fully protected teeth and peace of mind.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sealants?
Children and Teens: Sealants are most commonly applied to children’s permanent molars and premolars as soon as they come in (around ages 6 and 12). By protecting these teeth early, you can significantly reduce your child’s risk of developing cavities during their formative years.
Adults: While dental sealants are most often associated with younger patients, adults can also benefit. If you have deep grooves in your molars or are prone to cavities, sealants can be an excellent preventive treatment to preserve your dental health.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Dental sealants can last up to 5-10 years with proper care. During your regular dental check-ups, Dr. Chan will monitor the condition of the sealants and reapply them if necessary. It’s important to continue practicing good oral hygiene and maintaining regular dental visits to ensure long-term protection.
Why Choose Wentworth Dental Clinic for Dental Sealants?
At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, we’re committed to delivering personalized care that meets the unique needs of each patient. Here’s why families from Chinatown, The Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, West Loop, and Wicker Park/Bucktown trust us for their dental care:
- Experienced Care: Dr. Helen Chan is highly skilled in preventive dentistry, ensuring the best protection for your smile.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: We use advanced tools like laser dentistry and 3D printing to enhance your dental care experience.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Our practice is designed to make both children and adults feel comfortable, making every visit a positive one.
- Comprehensive Services: From routine cleanings to restorative care, we offer a wide range of services to keep your smile healthy.
The Benefits of Preventive Care with Sealants
Sealants are just one aspect of preventive dental care. When combined with regular exams, professional cleanings, and fluoride treatments, sealants provide an added layer of protection that helps reduce your risk of cavities and other dental issues. Preventive care is the key to maintaining your smile’s health and avoiding more complex, costly procedures in the future.
For more preventive options, learn about our General Dentistry services.
Protect Your Smile Today – Schedule Your Appointment!
Prevent cavities and protect your teeth with dental sealants at Wentworth Dental Clinic. Whether for yourself or your child, sealants are a smart, painless way to keep your smile healthy.
Call us at (312) 225-5500 or visit our Contact Page to schedule an appointment today!