Dental Sealants

Prevent Cavities Before They Start With Dental Sealants

At Chips Dental Associates, we believe that prevention is the key to a lifetime of healthy smiles. One of the most effective tools we offer in our general dentistry services is dental sealants—a simple, non-invasive treatment that protects teeth from decay before it can begin. Whether you’re a parent looking to protect your child’s molars or an adult wanting added cavity protection, our dental sealants are a smart, affordable choice.

With offices in both Gibsonia and Pittsburgh, we make it easy for families throughout the area to get preventive care they can trust.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—where cavities are most likely to form. These molars and premolars have deep grooves that can trap food and bacteria, even with regular brushing. A sealant smooths out these grooves, creating a shield against decay.

Sealants are most commonly recommended for:

  • Children and teens, as soon as their permanent molars erupt
  • Adults who are prone to cavities or have deep grooves in their teeth
  • Patients with early signs of enamel wear or sensitivity

Benefits of Dental Sealants

Choosing sealants at Chips Dental Associates offers long-lasting protection with minimal effort. Key benefits include:

  • Prevents 80% of cavities in molars for children and teens
  • Quick, painless application—no drilling or anesthesia required
  • Cost-effective way to avoid future dental work
  • Durable protection that can last up to 10 years with proper care

What to Expect During the Sealant Procedure

The process of getting dental sealants at our Gibsonia or Pittsburgh location is fast and simple:

  1. Your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and dried.
  2. A special solution is applied to help the sealant bond to the tooth.
  3. The sealant material is painted onto the enamel surface.
  4. A curing light hardens the sealant in seconds.

This entire process is completed in one visit and is often included as part of a routine dental cleaning.

Who Should Consider Dental Sealants?

While sealants are commonly associated with pediatric care, they are not just for kids. At Chips Dental Associates, we recommend sealants for:

  • Children starting around age 6 when first molars appear
  • Teens as their second molars come in
  • Adults with healthy molars but high risk for decay

Our team often combines sealants with other preventive treatments like fluoride therapy to maximize your cavity protection.

Why Choose Chips Dental Associates?

  • Multi-generational, family-owned dental practice
  • Trusted by local families in Gibsonia and Pittsburgh for decades
  • Highly skilled team including Dr. Timothy Chips, an Associate Fellow in the American Academy of Implant Dentistry
  • Full-service dental care under one roof—no unnecessary referrals

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants

How long do dental sealants last?
Sealants can last up to 10 years but may need to be checked and occasionally reapplied during regular dental visits.

Are dental sealants safe for children?
Yes. Sealants are safe and recommended by the American Dental Association for children as young as 6 years old.

Do sealants replace fluoride treatments?
No, sealants and fluoride work together. Sealants protect the grooves, while fluoride strengthens the enamel across the whole tooth.

Is the procedure painful?
Not at all. Sealant application is quick, painless, and doesn’t require numbing or drilling.

Will insurance cover dental sealants?
Many dental insurance plans cover sealants for children and teens. Our patient info page provides more details on accepted insurances.

Protect Your Smile—Schedule a Sealant Appointment Today

Ready to safeguard your teeth or your child’s smile from cavities? Our team at Chips Dental Associates in Gibsonia and Pittsburgh is here to help. We make preventive care easy, convenient, and effective.

Call us today to schedule:

Or use our online contact form to request an appointment.