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Sealants

  • Largo Smiles

Sealants

A sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of molars, premolars and any deep grooves (called pits and fissures) of teeth. More than 75% of dental decay begins in these deep grooves. Teeth with these conditions are hard to clean and are very susceptible to decay. A sealant protects the tooth by sealing deep grooves, creating a smooth, easy to clean surface.

Sealants can protect teeth from decay for many years, but need to be checked for wear and chipping at regular dental visits.

Preventive Dental Care

Reasons for sealants:

  • Children and teenagers – As soon as the six-year molars (the first permanent back teeth) appear or any time throughout the cavity prone years of 6-16.
  • Adults – Tooth surfaces without decay that have deep grooves or depressions.

What do sealants involve?

Sealants are easily applied by your dentist or dental hygienist and the process takes only a couple of minutes per tooth.

The teeth to be sealed are thoroughly cleaned and then surrounded with cotton to keep the area dry. A special solution is applied to the enamel surface to help the sealant bond to the teeth. The teeth are then rinsed and dried. Sealant material is carefully painted onto the enamel surface to cover the deep grooves or depressions. Depending on the type of sealant used, the material will either harden automatically or with a special curing light.

Proper home care, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new sealants.

  • Specialized Expertise, Lasting Results

Why Choose Key Largo Smiles

At Key Largo Smiles, we believe exceptional dentistry is built on trust, compassion, and personalized care.

From preventive checkups to advanced restorative and cosmetic treatments, our team is dedicated to creating an experience that feels comfortable, transparent, and tailored to you. Dr. Santos and our skilled dental professionals combine years of clinical expertise with the latest dental technology to ensure every visit delivers lasting results and a healthy, confident smile.

We take time to understand your goals, explain every step of your treatment, and design a care plan that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re visiting for a routine cleaning or a complete smile transformation, you can expect gentle care, honest guidance, and a supportive environment that puts your comfort first.

At Key Largo Smiles, your oral health isn’t just our priority—it’s our passion.

Reasons for composite fillings:

  • Chipped teeth.
  • Closing space between two teeth.
  • Cracked or broken teeth.
  • Decayed teeth.
  • Worn teeth.
Dental Cleanings & Hygiene

How are composite fillings placed?

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as necessary. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.

  • It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.
  • You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment.  Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.

Fluoride Treatments

Professional fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugars. These quick, painless treatments provide an extra layer of protection against cavities and can even help reverse early signs of decay. Particularly beneficial for children and adults with certain risk factors, fluoride treatments are a powerful preventive tool.
Fluoride Treatments

Periodontal Care

Healthy gums are essential to overall oral health. Our comprehensive periodontal care includes thorough assessment of gum tissues, measurement of gum pockets, and targeted cleaning procedures when necessary. We help patients prevent, manage, and treat gum disease to maintain both their oral health and overall wellbeing.
Periodontal Care

Oral Cancer Screenings

Early detection is crucial for successful treatment of oral cancer. As part of every comprehensive exam, Dr. Santos performs a thorough screening for signs of oral cancer and precancerous conditions. This quick, painless screening could literally save your life, as oral cancers detected in early stages have a significantly higher survival rate.

Night Guards & Sport Guards

Protect your teeth from grinding, clenching, and sports-related injuries with our custom-fitted mouth guards. Unlike one-size-fits-all options, our guards are precisely designed for your unique dental anatomy, providing optimal protection and comfort. These preventive appliances can save you from fractured teeth, worn enamel, jaw pain, and other damage.
Night Guards & Sport Guards

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  • FAQ's

Common Questions About Composite Fillings

Most patients benefit from professional cleanings every six months. However, if you have certain risk factors or conditions like gum disease, diabetes, or a history of frequent cavities, Dr. Santos may recommend more frequent visits. Each patient’s cleaning schedule is personalized based on their unique oral health needs.
Consistent home care is essential. We recommend brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, using an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended, and maintaining a healthy diet low in sugary foods and drinks. We provide personalized home care instructions based on your specific needs.
Yes. At Largo Smiles Dental Center, we use digital X-ray technology that reduces radiation exposure by up to 90% compared to traditional film X-rays. We also follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) and only take X-rays when necessary for diagnosis and treatment planning.
We recommend children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits help establish comfort with dental care, monitor development, and provide parents with guidance on proper oral hygiene techniques for their child.