Sealants
Driftwood Dental Studio places dental sealants in Wilmington, NC to protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth from cavities. A sealant is a thin protective coating painted into the deep grooves of the molars, where food and bacteria get trapped and a toothbrush has trouble reaching. Placing sealants is quick and painless, with no drilling or numbing.
Ask about sealants at your next visit, or call (910) 834-8787 or request an appointment online.
How sealants work
The chewing surfaces of back teeth are covered in narrow pits and grooves. Even with good brushing, food and bacteria settle into them, which is why that is where most cavities start. A sealant fills and covers those grooves with a smooth surface that is easy to keep clean.
Getting sealants
We clean and dry each tooth, apply the sealant to the grooves, and harden it with a light. It takes just a few minutes per tooth, and you can eat normally afterward.
Frequently asked questions about sealants
Are dental sealants worth it?
For teeth with deep grooves, sealants are an inexpensive way to prevent cavities on the surfaces where they are most likely to start. Preventing a cavity costs far less than filling one later.
Can adults get sealants?
Sealants are most often placed on children's and teenagers' molars soon after they come in, but adults with deep grooves and no fillings on those teeth can benefit too. We will tell you at your exam whether sealants make sense for you.
Does insurance cover sealants?
Many dental plans cover sealants for children; coverage for adults varies by plan. We are in-network with more than 30 dental insurance plans, including Delta Dental, Cigna, MetLife, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, Humana and Guardian. We check your benefits and give you a written estimate before treatment. See the full list on our Financial Information page.
How long do sealants last?
Sealants can last for several years. We check them at each checkup and touch them up if needed.
Visit us
Driftwood Dental Studio is at 5225 Sigmon Rd, Suite 130, Wilmington, NC 28403, just off Market Street near Mayfaire. We are open Monday through Wednesday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Thursday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM; and Friday, 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Call (910) 834-8787 or request an appointment online.
