Preventive · Since 1987
Dental Sealants in Wilmington, NC
A sealant is a thin coating over the grooves of a back tooth. It takes a few minutes per tooth, needs no drilling, and prevents most of the cavities children get.
About sealants
The chewing surfaces of molars have grooves narrower than a toothbrush bristle. Food and bacteria get in, the brush does not, and that is where the majority of childhood decay starts.
Sealants go on best shortly after the permanent molars come through, around age six and again around twelve. Adults with deep unfilled grooves are candidates too.
How it works
- Check the toothSealants go over healthy grooves. If there is already decay, it needs a filling instead.
- Clean and prepareThe surface is cleaned and conditioned. No drill, no injection.
- Apply and cureThe sealant flows into the grooves and is set with a light.
- Check the biteA quick adjustment so it does not feel high.
Recovery and aftercare
Eat and drink normally straight away. We check sealants at every hygiene visit and repair them if they chip, which is quick and often included.
Cost and coverage
Most dental plans cover sealants for children on permanent molars, frequently at 100 percent. A sealant costs a fraction of what a filling on the same tooth costs later.
You may be a candidate if
- Children whose six-year or twelve-year molars have just erupted
- Deep grooves in molars that trap food
- A history of cavities in the family
- Adults with unrestored molars and deep anatomy
- Anyone at higher decay risk from medication-related dry mouth
Dental Sealants by town
We see patients from across New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender and Onslow counties.
In their own words
Hear from Dr. Josh Winneberger
Dr. Winneberger on getting you numb without you noticing, and helping nervous patients get comfortable in the chair.
Questions we get asked
At what age should my child get sealants?
Soon after the first permanent molars erupt, around six, and again for the second molars around twelve.
How long do sealants last?
Several years commonly. We check them at each visit and top them up as needed.
Do sealants contain BPA?
Modern dental sealants are not made from BPA. Trace exposure at application is far below any level of concern, and it is a fair question to ask us at the appointment.
Can adults get sealants?
Yes, if the grooves are deep and the tooth has never been filled.
Does my child still need to brush those teeth?
Yes. Sealants protect the grooves. They do nothing for the sides of the teeth or the gum line.
Dental Sealants
One trip. Everybody seen.
We block consecutive appointments so a family visit is one morning rather than three separate afternoons.
- General, cosmetic, orthodontic and surgical care under one roof
- Consecutive family scheduling on request
- Sealants and preventive care for children
- Most major dental plans accepted
Nervous child? Tell us before the appointment and we will slow the whole thing down.
Request an appointment
We reply the next business day.
Please do not include Protected Health Information. For anything urgent, call (910) 762-0958.
