Dental Sealants
in Upper East, Manhattan
Deep grooves on back teeth are magnets for plaque and acid. Dental sealants place a thin, protective coating over these chewing surfaces to block decay before it starts. At Blue Dental Clinic on the Upper East Side, sealants are fast, comfortable, and tailored to your cavity risk.
Why choose us for sealants
- Risk-based recommendations: We assess grooves, diet, hygiene, and history to decide which teeth benefit most.
- Durable placement: Careful isolation and bonding steps for long-lasting protection.
- Kid- and adult-friendly: Great for newly erupted molars, orthodontic patients, and adults with deep fissures.
- Insurance-friendly: Up-front estimates, benefits verified, and claims filed on your behalf.
What are dental sealants?
Sealants are tooth-colored coatings that flow into the pits and fissures of premolars and molars, creating a smooth, easy-to-clean surface. They help prevent food and bacteria from settling where a toothbrush can’t reach.
Who benefits most
- Children & teens (6–14): Newly erupted first and second molars are most at risk.
- Adults with deep grooves: Even great brushers can miss microscopic pits.
- Orthodontic patients: Brackets make cleaning harder; sealants reduce risk of new cavities.
- High-caries risk: Frequent snacking, dry mouth, or past cavities.
The sealant process (quick & painless)
- Clean & prepare: We polish the tooth and isolate it from saliva.
- Condition: A gentle etch creates a micro-grip for bonding.
- Place & cure: Sealant flows into grooves and is light-hardened in seconds.
- Check the bite: We make sure everything feels smooth before you go.
Most teeth take only a few minutes to seal—no shots, no drilling.
How long do sealants last?
With good home care and regular checkups, sealants can protect for 3–5 years or longer. If a small area wears or chips, we can touch it up easily.
Aftercare
You can eat and drink right away (avoid very sticky foods for the first few hours). Keep brushing and flossing—sealants protect grooves but don’t replace daily hygiene.
Cost & insurance
Many plans cover sealants for children and, in some cases, for adults with risk factors. We’ll check coverage in advance, give a clear written estimate, and submit your claim.
FAQs
Do sealants replace fluoride?
No—think of sealants as a shield for grooves and
fluoride as strength for all enamel. They work best together.
Can a sealed tooth still get a cavity?
Rarely, and usually only if the sealant partially wears off. That’s why periodic checks are important.
Are sealants noticeable?
They’re tooth-colored or clear and generally invisible when you smile.
Do they contain BPA?
Modern dental materials meet safety standards. If you have concerns, we can review specific product data before treatment.
Can adults get sealants?
Yes. Deep fissures and hard-to-clean areas in adults benefit as well, especially during orthodontic treatment or dry mouth.
Ready to protect your molars?
Book a sealant appointment at our Upper East Side office. We’ll identify which teeth need protection, place sealants comfortably, and help keep cavities off your radar.