Dental sealants are a valuable tool in preventive care, especially for children and teens prone to cavities. But when it comes to already restored teeth, many patients ask: “Can you put sealants on teeth with fillings?” The short answer? Not typically.
Why Don’t Sealants and Dental Fillings Mix?
Sealants are designed to coat the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to block food and bacteria from settling into deep grooves. They are not typically placed over existing fillings because sealant adhesion is compromised on non-enamel surfaces, and, anyway, the filling material already serves a restorative function.
That said, there are exceptions. In some cases, dental sealants may be applied to portions of a tooth that remain untreated, even if another part contains a small filling. This is determined on a case-by-case basis, depending on the condition of the tooth and the location and size of the restoration.
Exploring Your Treatment Options
While dental sealants over fillings aren't common, preventive strategies are still available to protect your smile. Talk to your dentist about the best options for your long-term oral health.
Understanding dental sealant compatibility with fillings helps patients make informed decisions. If you or your child has fillings but you're still interested in cavity prevention, your dentist may recommend sealants for previously treated teeth in specific situations.
A Top Northborough, MA, Dental Team for Sealants and Fillings
If you’re in the Northborough area and want to learn more about dental sealants for your kids, including whether they can safely be applied to previously treated teeth, contact Dr. Craig Macdonald and the excellent Children’s Dentistry of Northborough team to schedule a consultation!