Sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teens, especially as soon as their permanent molars erupt. However, adults with healthy molars and no prior fillings may also benefit from sealants as a proactive measure.
Fillings and Sealants
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Cost
At Cary Implant and General Dentistry, fillings are $302–$344.
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Procedure Duration
Appointments typically last 30 to 60 minutes depending on the number of teeth.
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Pain Level
Numbing and sedation options make treatment comfortable and pain-free.
Sedation Dentistry
Cavity Fillings and Dental Sealants in Cary, NC
Fillings treat cavities by restoring decayed areas with strong, tooth-colored materials. Sealants are a painless, preventive coating applied to back teeth to guard against decay. Both options are essential tools for keeping your smile healthy and avoiding more serious dental issues later.
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Process for Fillings
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Numbing the Area – The dentist gently numbs the area around the affected tooth to keep you completely comfortable.
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Decay Removal – Using precise tools, any decayed material is carefully removed from the tooth.
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Filling the Tooth – A durable, tooth-colored material is applied to fill the space, shaped to match your bite, and polished for a natural look.
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Process for Sealants
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Cleaning the Tooth – The chewing surfaces of the back teeth are cleaned and dried thoroughly.
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Preparing the Surface – A gentle etching solution is applied to help the sealant bond properly.
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Applying the Sealant – The sealant material is painted onto the tooth and cured with a special light to form a hard, protective coating.
FAQ
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Are sealants recommended for adults or children?
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Are sealants recommended for adults or children?
A cavity filling repairs damage caused by tooth decay by removing the decayed portion and filling the space with a tooth-colored material to restore function and appearance. Sealants, on the other hand, are a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent decay from starting in the first place. Fillings are restorative; sealants are preventive.
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How long do fillings and sealants typically last?
Composite fillings can last 5–10 years with proper care. Dental sealants typically last several years and can be reapplied as needed during regular checkups.
Related Services
Dental Checkup
Regular dental checkups are key to catching issues early, avoiding costly treatments later, and keeping your teeth and gums healthy. These visits include an exam, cleaning, and X-rays to help you avoid gum disease and tooth decay. The American Dental Association recommends scheduling a dental exam every six months.
Dental Checkup
Dental Crowns and Bridges
Protect and rebuild weakened teeth or replace missing ones with custom dental crowns and bridges. A dental crown or “cap” is a covering that fits over a damaged, decayed or unattractive tooth. It can even replace a tooth entirely as part of dental bridgework. These restorations look and function like natural teeth.
Dental Crowns and Bridges