At Lakeside Dental in Lenoir City, we believe preventive care is the foundation of lifelong oral health—and dental sealants are one of the easiest, most effective ways we can protect your family’s smiles. Dr. Joseph Blalock and our compassionate team are proud to offer this simple yet powerful treatment that helps stop cavities before they start. Whether your child is getting their first molars or you’re simply looking to take extra steps to preserve your own teeth, we’re here with care you can count on and a warm welcome every step of the way.
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—where most cavities form. These grooves and pits in molars can be tough to clean thoroughly, even with excellent brushing habits. Sealants act as a barrier, keeping out food particles and bacteria that can lead to decay.
While sealants are especially beneficial for children and teens who are more prone to cavities, they can also be a smart option for adults with deep grooves in their teeth or a history of dental decay. The application is quick, painless, and can last several years—making it one of the easiest ways to preserve your natural teeth and avoid more costly dental work in the future.
How do dental sealants work?
Sealants create a smooth surface over the deep grooves and pits of your molars, making them easier to clean and protecting them from food debris and plaque. They’re painted onto the teeth in a liquid form and quickly hardened with a special curing light. Once in place, they serve as a long-lasting shield against cavity-causing bacteria.
Are sealants just for kids?
While dental sealants are most commonly used for children and teenagers—especially when their permanent molars first erupt—they can also benefit adults. If you have deep grooves in your back teeth or are prone to cavities, Dr. Blalock may recommend sealants as a preventive measure, regardless of your age.
How long do sealants last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, sealants can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Our team will monitor your sealants at every visit to ensure they remain intact and effective. If they wear down over time, reapplication is simple and painless.
Do sealants replace brushing and flossing?
Not at all—sealants are a supplement to your regular oral hygiene routine, not a substitute. While they protect the chewing surfaces of the molars, brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and keeping up with professional cleanings are still essential for total mouth health.
Fluoride was first added to public water supplies in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1945, and since then, has contributed to a dramatic decline in dental decay nationwide.
If you have a damaged or missing tooth, restorative care helps you avoid further complications like tooth infections or teeth shifting after tooth loss.
As experts in cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Blalock and the team at Lakeside Dental will focus on function and aesthetics during your restorative care.
A damaged or decayed tooth can cause serious discomfort, but we can treat the root cause of your problem and provide you with relief.
At Lakeside Dental, protecting your smile is part of our mission to serve Lenoir City with honesty, heart, and high-quality care. Dr. Blalock’s journey—from a childhood on a Tennessee farm to a career in compassionate dentistry—shapes everything we do. We’re proud to provide preventive solutions like dental sealants in a space where every patient feels seen, heard, and genuinely cared for. If you're ready to take a proactive step toward healthier teeth, we’re here to help.
Call us today at (865) 635-4999 to schedule your visit. Your smile deserves it.