Pay Online
A Smart, Simple Defense Against Cavities
Even with excellent brushing, the back teeth are tough to keep completely clean. Molars and premolars have deep grooves and pits where food and bacteria easily collect and toothbrush bristles cannot always reach. Over time, that trapped debris turns into decay. Dental sealants solve the problem with a thin protective coating that seals off those vulnerable surfaces.
At Broadway Dental of Millbrae, Dr. Donald Yang uses sealants as a fast, painless way to add real cavity protection, especially for children, but for adults too. Applied in just minutes, a sealant acts like a barrier that keeps decay-causing bacteria out of the grooves where cavities usually begin.
Ask About Dental Sealants
How Dental Sealants Protect Your Teeth
A sealant is a tooth-colored or clear resin that bonds into the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Once in place, it smooths over the deep grooves so food and plaque can no longer settle in and do damage.
Think of it as sealing the cracks before water can get in. Brushing becomes more effective because the surface is smoother and easier to clean, and the areas most prone to decay are shielded from the acids that cause cavities. It is one of the most cost-effective preventive treatments in dentistry.
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
Sealants deliver a lot of protection for very little time in the chair. Their advantages include:
- Strong cavity protection for the grooves and pits where most decay begins
- A quick, painless application with no drilling and no numbing needed
- Long-lasting defense, often protecting teeth for several years with proper care
- Easier cleaning, since sealed teeth have smoother surfaces that brush more effectively
- Prevention over repair, helping patients avoid fillings and more involved treatment later
- A great fit for the whole family, protecting children's developing teeth and adults' at-risk molars
What to Expect When You Get Sealants
Getting a sealant is one of the simplest procedures in dentistry. It is completely comfortable and takes only a few minutes per tooth. There is no downtime and no discomfort. You can eat and drink as soon as you leave.
1
Cleaning
We thoroughly clean and dry the tooth to prepare the surface.
2
Preparing the surface
A gentle solution is applied to help the sealant bond securely, then rinsed away.
3
Applying the sealant
The liquid sealant is painted into the grooves of the tooth, where it flows into every pit.
4
Hardening
A special curing light quickly sets the sealant into a durable protective coating.
5
A quick check
Dr. Yang checks your bite to make sure everything feels smooth and comfortable.
Who Should Consider Dental Sealants?
Sealants are best known for protecting children, but they are not just for kids. You may be a good candidate if:
- Are a child or teen with newly erupted permanent molars, ideal for early protection
- Have deep grooves or pits in the back teeth that trap food easily
- Are prone to cavities or have a history of decay
- Want an extra layer of prevention on healthy back teeth
- Struggle to keep back teeth fully clean with brushing alone
The best time to seal permanent molars is soon after they come in, usually around ages 6 and 12, but adults with healthy, cavity-free molars can benefit as well. Dr. Yang will let you know if sealants are a good fit during your exam.
Seal Out Decay Before It Starts
Dental sealants are a small step that pays off for years, protecting the teeth most likely to develop cavities. Whether you are safeguarding your child's new molars or adding protection to your own smile, a quick visit is all it takes.
We proudly welcome patients from Millbrae, San Bruno, Tanforan, San Mateo, Hillsborough, Burlingame, and Daly City.
Book Your Appointment