Hingham Dentistry

Sealants

Protective coatings applied to molars to shield grooves from decay, especially helpful for kids and teens.

Sealants are thin resin coatings painted onto the deep grooves of back teeth, sealing out food and bacteria where toothbrush bristles can't reach. While fluoride protects smooth surfaces, sealants protect the chewing surfaces.

Why we recommend them
  • Great for kids and adultsEspecially valuable for children with new permanent teeth or anyone prone to cavities.
  • Cost-effective preventionA sealant costs far less than a future filling or crown.
  • Long-lastingHolds up for years with normal care.

The visit takes one appointment. We clean the tooth, prepare its surface so the material can adhere, apply the sealant to the grooves, and cure it with a quick light. Newly erupted permanent teeth are especially vulnerable because their enamel continues maturing after eruption. Adults with dry mouth, limited fluoride exposure, or a history of cavities may also benefit. Keep up regular exams and home care for the best protection.

Your treatment team

The specialists leading your care.

Dr. Adrina DeVitre, General Dentist at Hingham Dentistry

Dr. Adrina DeVitre

DMD · General Dentist

Dr. Adrina DeVitre grew up watching her parents, both dentists, caring for patients. From the age of 11, she'd go into the office with her mother on weekends and assist in small ways. It was then she began noticing and appreciating the delicate touch required for dental work and the compassion her mother had for her patients. At 14, she began helping out on the administrative side, where she developed a sense of responsibility and professionalism that she carried with her into her own career. Before long, Dr. DeVitre came to realize the dental field was more than just the family business. It became her passion.

Dr. Elaina Kazes, General Dentist at Hingham Dentistry

Dr. Elaina Kazes

DMD · General Dentist

Dr. Kazes earned her Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences from Fordham University and her DMD from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Adrina DeVitre was her mentor in dental school, generously guiding her throughout her educational journey. During dental school, Dr. Kazes earned the American Association of Oral Biologists Award, the Academy of Dentistry for Persons with Disabilities Student Award, and was a three-time recipient of the Chigas Scholarship Award. She participated in research and was a finalist in the DENTSPLY/Caulk Competition for her presentation at the AADR conference in 2014.

Dr. Amy Yeh, General Dentist at Hingham Dentistry

Dr. Amy Yeh

DMD · General Dentist

Dr. Amy Yeh grew up in Virginia Beach, VA where she became an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician. She continued working as an AEMT while attending Emory University and graduated with a B.S. in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology and a B.A. in French Studies.

Questions

Sealants questions, answered.

These answers cover the usual starting points. Call the office when your situation needs a more specific answer.

Do dental sealants hurt?

No, applying a sealant is simple: we clean the tooth, paint on the sealant, and cure it with a quick light. There is no drilling or numbing involved.

Are sealants just for kids?

Sealants are especially valuable for children with new permanent teeth, but they are great for adults too, especially anyone prone to cavities.

How long do dental sealants last?

Sealants are long-lasting and hold up for years with normal care. Keeping up with regular exams and home care helps them protect your teeth for as long as possible.

Why are sealants recommended if I already use fluoride?

Fluoride protects the smooth surfaces of your teeth, while sealants protect the chewing surfaces and deep grooves of your back teeth where a toothbrush can't fully reach.

How many visits does getting a sealant take?

Getting a sealant takes one appointment. We clean the tooth, apply the sealant, and cure it with a quick light all in the same visit.

Take the next step with the right doctor.

Tell us what you are experiencing, and we will connect you with the doctor whose training fits the case.

Book Your Visit