How can sealants help protect your teeth?

December 5, 2013

Prevention is the best way to ensure you keep your teeth for your whole life. Home care is a large part of prevention, but there are procedures that can help protect your smile and increase the life of your teeth. One such procedure is dental sealants.


How Sealants Work

Dental sealants are clear or white resin material that is placed on the chewing surface of your teeth to protect against bacteria and decay. Sealants are a physical barrier between your natural tooth enamel and the bacteria in your mouth. Sealants are only applied to the chewing surfaces of your teeth, as these are the most susceptible to decay and the most difficult to clean due to their uneven anatomy.


At your appointment, one of our Evanston dentists will clean and prep your teeth. Then he will apply the resin material to the chewing surface of each tooth. Then the material is hardened using a curing light. Once the material hardens, it may protect your teeth for 5 to 10 years. Your hygienists will check your sealants at each hygiene appointment to make sure they are still intact. If a sealant begins to break down from wear, they can be reapplied.


The Need for Sealants

As your teeth form, the enamel is built up through mineralization. This process forms pits and grooves which are part of the natural anatomy of your tooth. These natural pits and grooves are ideal places for bacteria to live and food particles to get caught. This creates an ideal environment to promote tooth decay and cavity formation. As the bacteria metabolize the sugars from leftover food particles, they produce acids which decay and erode your tooth enamel, thus form cavities.


Normal brushing is not enough to thoroughly clean the pits and grooves of your teeth. Even toothbrushes with micro bristles, such as a Rotodent, are not always able to access the entire surface area of your teeth.


Who Can Have Sealants

Our Evanston dentists recommend sealants for children as soon as their adult teeth erupt. This provides the most protection for new teeth. Any tooth that has not been exposed to decay can be sealed. Once a tooth experiences decay, it can no longer be sealed. In that case, the decayed portion needs to be removed and a filling needs to be placed.


There is no age restriction that limits sealants to children.

Dental sealants are an excellent way to protect your teeth, but they do not preclude you from visiting the dentist or taking proper care of your teeth. Sealants are just one of the tools our dental professionals use to help you protect your teeth. When combined with proper home care and regular dental visits, dental sealants can help you keep your teeth for your whole life.

June 24, 2025
Pregnancy is a time of excitement, anticipation, and transformation. As your body adapts to nurture new life, your needs evolve—including your dental care. At Stephens Dentistry, we’re passionate about supporting expectant mothers through every stage of this journey. Understanding the connection between oral health and pregnancy is not just important for your smile, but for the wellbeing of both you and your baby.  How Pregnancy Impacts Oral Health Pregnancy brings about a surge in hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, which can have a profound effect on your gums and teeth. Many women notice changes in their oral health during pregnancy, including increased sensitivity, swelling, or bleeding gums. These shifts aren't just uncomfortable—they can also signal conditions that need attention to safeguard your overall health. Pregnancy Gingivitis: What You Need to Know One of the most common dental issues during pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , up to 60–75% of pregnant women develop gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. This occurs because hormonal changes heighten the body’s response to the bacteria in dental plaque. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis—a more serious gum infection that can cause tooth loss and has been linked to health risks beyond the mouth. Oral Health and Birth Outcomes The importance of oral health during pregnancy goes beyond comfort and aesthetics. Research has shown a significant link between maternal gum disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. A systematic review published in the Journal of Dental Research found that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver prematurely or have babies with low birth weights. Although more research is ongoing, the potential connection means that taking care of your gums and teeth is an essential part of prenatal health. Why Dental Care Shouldn’t Wait Some expectant mothers worry about dental treatments during pregnancy. The good news is that routine dental care—including cleanings and necessary treatments—are not only safe but recommended during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists confirms that preventive dental work is important and can be performed safely, especially in the second trimester. Delaying care can allow small problems to become bigger ones, and untreated infections can pose a risk to both you and your baby. If you are planning to become pregnant, scheduling a dental checkup beforehand is an excellent way to get ahead of any issues. Practical Tips for Expectant Mothers Maintaining oral health during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy throughout your pregnancy: Brush and Floss Regularly: Aim to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps remove plaque and reduce your risk of gingivitis. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on nutritious foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which support both your oral and overall health. Manage Morning Sickness: If you experience vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash rather than brushing immediately afterward, as stomach acid can soften tooth enamel. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and can also help combat dry mouth, which is common in pregnancy. Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Let your dental team know you are pregnant so they can tailor your care. At Stephens Dentistry, we take extra precautions to ensure your comfort and safety during each visit. Learn more about our preventive dental services . Recognizing When to Call Your Dentist While mild gum sensitivity is common, it’s important to reach out to your dentist if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, or pain. These symptoms could indicate an infection that needs prompt attention. If you develop a dental emergency during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist—timely care is always the best choice for both you and your baby. Supporting Your Health at Stephens Dentistry At Stephens Dentistry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized dental care for every stage of life—including pregnancy. Our team stays up-to-date on the latest guidelines and safety protocols to ensure you receive the best care possible. For more information on how we support our patients during pregnancy, visit our dental care for families page. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and your smile should be a part of it. Prioritizing your oral health is a gift to yourself and your growing family. If you have questions or want to schedule your next dental visit, contact our office —we’re here to help you every step of the way.
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