Dental Sealants

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where deep grooves and pits can trap food and bacteria that a toothbrush bristle can't always reach. They're a simple, painless way to add an extra layer of defense against decay in these harder-to-clean areas, and they're commonly considered for children and adults alike whenever a tooth's anatomy makes it more cavity-prone. At Salm Dental, Dr. Adam Salm, DMD evaluates each tooth's surface and discusses whether sealants make sense as part of your overall preventive care.

What the Visit Involves

Placing a sealant is quick and doesn't require numbing. The tooth surface is cleaned and prepared, the sealant material is applied into the grooves, and it's hardened into place — creating a smooth, easier-to-clean surface.

Supporting Technology

• Intraoral Camera — Lets you see the grooves and surfaces being considered for sealants right on the exam room screen.
• Digital X-Rays — Give Dr. Salm a clear view of tooth structure to help plan preventive treatment.
• Caries Detection Laser — Helps identify early decay in grooves and pits before or after sealants are placed.

Part of Ongoing Prevention

Sealants work alongside routine cleanings, fluoride treatments, and regular exams to help protect vulnerable tooth surfaces over time. Dr. Salm can talk through how sealants fit into your broader hygiene routine at your next visit.