Dental sealants in Los Angeles, CA: A practical guide

Dental sealants in Los Angeles, CA are a simple, preventive treatment offered at Leith K Shawaf DDS to help protect cavity‑prone back teeth. This page explains how sealants work, when they are recommended, the steps of placement, safety, and how long results may last for patients in Los Angeles, California.

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. These areas have deep pits and fissures where plaque and food particles collect, making them harder to clean. A sealant flows into these grooves and is light‑cured to form a smooth barrier that helps block acids and bacteria. Sealants are most common for children and teens soon after molars erupt, but adults who are at higher risk for cavities can benefit as well. In many cases, sealants reduce the risk of decay in sealed pits and fissures when paired with daily brushing, flossing, and fluoride toothpaste.

Benefits of dental sealants

• Sealants help prevent cavities by shielding deep chewing grooves where toothbrush bristles do not reach well.
• Placement is quick and comfortable, with no shots or drilling required.
• Smooth surfaces are easier to keep clean, which supports overall oral hygiene.
• They are a cost‑effective preventive option compared with treating future tooth decay.
• Sealants are suitable for kids and adults based on cavity risk and tooth anatomy.
• They can last several years and are repairable if a small area chips or wears.

The dental sealants process

Clean and prepare

The tooth is cleaned to remove plaque and debris, then isolated to keep it dry. A gentle etching gel is placed briefly on the enamel to create a micro‑texture that helps the sealant bond.

Apply and cure

The sealant material is flowed into the pits and fissures and shaped as needed. A curing light hardens the material within seconds.

Check and finish

The bite is checked, and any high spots are adjusted. The tooth can be used right away after the appointment.

What to expect

Sealant visits are brief and comfortable. Most appointments take about 15 to 30 minutes for several teeth. You may notice a slight texture at first that feels different when you chew, which fades as you adjust. You can eat and drink right after treatment. To help sealants last, limit very sticky foods and avoid biting hard objects like ice or pens. With regular checkups, any worn or missing areas can be replaced.

Who should consider sealants?

Sealants are recommended for newly erupted permanent molars in children and teens, for patients with a history of cavities, and for anyone with deep pits and fissures that trap plaque. Adults who have early signs of risk, dry mouth, or orthodontic history may also benefit. If you are unsure whether you or your child needs pit and fissure sealants, a routine exam can identify risk and timing.

Safety and longevity

Sealant materials used in dentistry are considered safe by major health organizations. Trace BPA may be detectable right after placement but drops to near zero after rinsing. Most sealants last three to five years and many last longer with good home care and regular dental visits. If a sealant partially wears, the area can be cleaned and resealed without removing healthy tooth structure.