Dental Sealants in Fort Collins, CO

What Are Dental Sealants?

A dental sealant is a thin protective coating made from a biocompatible resin that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. These areas—particularly the deep pits and fissures—can trap food particles and bacteria that are difficult to remove with daily brushing.

Once applied, the sealant hardens and forms a smooth surface that acts as a barrier against cavity-causing plaque and acids. It’s a preventive step that can significantly reduce the risk of decay in both children and adults.

Who Should Get Dental Sealants?

While sealants are commonly placed on permanent molars in children between the ages of 6 and 14, many adult patients benefit as well—especially if their molars have not yet developed cavities or fillings.

We may recommend sealants for patients who:

1. Have deep grooves or pits on the chewing surfaces of their molars
2. Are at higher risk of tooth decay due to genetics, diet, or oral hygiene habits
3. Are undergoing other preventive treatments like fluoride applications
4. Prefer a conservative, non-invasive way to protect their back teeth
5. Have special needs or challenges with brushing and flossing thoroughly

If you’re unsure whether sealants are right for you or your child, we’ll assess your risk during a routine dental exam and provide personalized recommendations.

How Sealants Are Applied

Dental sealants can be completed in a single visit and are entirely painless. Here’s what to expect:

1. Cleaning and Preparation – We begin by thoroughly cleaning the teeth to ensure no food particles or bacteria are sealed in.
2. Application of Etching Solution – A mild acidic solution is applied to roughen the enamel surface so the sealant can bond securely.
3. Sealant Placement – The liquid sealant is painted onto the grooves of each tooth and hardened using a special curing light.
4. Final Check – We check your bite and polish the surface to ensure the sealant fits naturally and comfortably.

The process typically takes just a few minutes per tooth and offers years of protection.

How Long Do Sealants Last?

With proper care, dental sealants can last up to 5–10 years. During your regular visits, we’ll examine them for wear and reapply as needed. While sealants are extremely durable, they should still be supported by consistent at-home care, including brushing, flossing, and limiting sugary snacks.

We often combine sealants with other services in our general dentistry program to help patients avoid more complex and costly procedures in the future. All treatments are planned with a preventive mindset by Dr. Veronica Ray, who has years of experience delivering patient-first dental care to Fort Collins families.