Dental Sealants in Jackson, TN
Dental sealants are one of the most effective and affordable preventive treatments available — and at McLemore & McLemore, DDS, we use them to protect both children and adults from the cavities that are most likely to develop in the hard-to-clean grooves of the back teeth. Call us at (731) 424-2651 or contact us to find out if sealants are right for you or your child.
What Are Dental Sealants?
A dental sealant is a thin, protective plastic coating that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth — the molars and premolars — to shield them from decay. The deep grooves and pits on these surfaces are the areas most vulnerable to cavities because they are difficult to clean thoroughly, even with consistent brushing. Food particles and bacteria become trapped in these depressions, producing the acids that cause tooth decay over time.
Sealants work by filling in these grooves and creating a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that effectively seals out food and bacteria. The procedure is quick, painless, and non-invasive — no drilling or anesthesia is required. The sealant material is simply applied to the clean, dry tooth surface and hardened with a curing light.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Sealants are most commonly applied to children’s teeth as soon as the permanent molars come in — typically around ages 6 and 12 — to protect them through the cavity-prone childhood and adolescent years. Studies show that sealants can reduce the risk of cavities in treated molars by nearly 80 percent.
However, sealants are not just for children. At McLemore & McLemore, DDS, we also apply sealants to adult teeth that have deep grooves or fissures and have not yet developed decay. Adults who are at higher risk for cavities or who want to take a proactive approach to their oral health can benefit significantly from sealant protection.
Sealants do not replace regular dental cleanings and exams or good at-home oral hygiene — they work alongside these habits to provide an added layer of defense. With proper care, sealants typically last five to ten years and can be reapplied as needed. Contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS in Jackson, TN at (731) 424-2651 to ask whether sealants are a good option for your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants
What are dental sealants and what do they do?
Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to seal the grooves and pits where food and bacteria accumulate. They create a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that significantly reduces the risk of cavities forming in these vulnerable areas.
Are dental sealants only for children?
No. While sealants are most commonly applied to children’s molars shortly after they erupt, adults with deep grooves or fissures in their back teeth and no existing decay can also benefit from sealant protection. At McLemore & McLemore, DDS, we evaluate sealant candidacy for patients of all ages.
Is the sealant application painful?
No. Applying sealants is completely painless and requires no drilling or anesthesia. The tooth is cleaned, dried, and conditioned before the sealant is painted on and hardened with a curing light. The entire process takes only a few minutes per tooth.
How long do dental sealants last?
With proper care, dental sealants typically last five to ten years. Our team checks the condition of your sealants at every routine cleaning and exam and can reapply them if they show signs of wear or chipping.
Do sealants replace brushing and flossing?
No. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth but do not cover the sides or spaces between teeth. They work as an additional layer of protection alongside — not instead of — daily brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings at McLemore & McLemore, DDS.
Can sealants be applied over cavities?
No. Sealants are a preventive measure designed for teeth that have not yet developed decay. If a cavity is already present, it will need to be treated first. Our team will evaluate your teeth during your exam to determine which surfaces are appropriate for sealant application.
How do I get dental sealants at McLemore & McLemore, DDS?
Sealants can be applied at a routine cleaning and exam appointment at McLemore & McLemore, DDS. Call us at (731) 424-2651 or visit our contact page to schedule in Jackson, TN. We welcome patients of all ages.
