First time going to Okun- Where do I begin, I am 32 and I have never experienced more of a beautiful dentist experience as I did today. I went to dr. IRINA and I made sure to ask the assistant’s name, Renle, as I needed to write a review… Irina has such a pep in her step. She is a ball of sunshine while the assistant is too. They work so great together and they were very efficient and QUICK. They did a filling. DR.IRINA WAS SO HONEST WITH WHAT I NEEDED! She could’ve told me I needed so much more done… thank you Okun
- lindsey
5.0
Brushing sometimes misses some of these intricate structures on the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
Enter sealants, which are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces designed to prevent the intrusion of bacteria and other debris into the deep crevices on the tops of your teeth.
Sealants actually were developed about 50 years ago, but didn’t become commonly used until the 1970s. Today, sealants are becoming widely popular and effective; young children are great candidates for preventative measures like sealants because in many cases, decay has not set in. Our trusted dental expert in Tempe have demonstrated that even in teeth with existing decay, sealants effectively combat further damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. They seal pits and grooves to block food particles and bacteria, helping prevent decay, especially in children’s newly erupted permanent teeth.
Sealants are ideal for children and teens whose molars have fully erupted. However, adults with deep grooves or a history of cavities can also benefit from this treatment. Our Tempe team evaluates tooth structure and decay risk to recommend sealants when appropriate.
We clean the tooth surface, apply an etching gel, rinse, and dry, then apply the sealant material. A special curing light hardens the coating. The process is quick, painless, and typically finished in one visit.
Sealants typically last around five years, although many remain effective for longer with proper care. During your regular dental exams at our Tempe office, we’ll check the condition of your sealants and reapply or repair them if needed.
Sealants are very effective at protecting the chewing surfaces from decay, but they don’t cover all parts of the tooth. Good oral hygiene, fluoride treatments, and regular dental checkups still play a crucial role in preventing cavities.
Yes. Sealants are a proven, non‑invasive preventive treatment with minimal risk. The materials used are biocompatible, and the application is painless. Our Tempe dentists adhere to strict safety and sterilization protocols during all procedures.
No — sealants are clear or slightly tinted and are applied only to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. Once cured, they are virtually invisible and do not compromise the natural appearance of your smile.
No. Since the procedure involves cleaning and bonding a thin coating to the tooth surface, no drilling or anesthesia is needed. Most patients feel no discomfort, making it a very comfortable preventive option at our Tempe location.
Yes — in many cases, we apply sealants to primary molars if they have deep grooves and are at high risk for decay. This helps protect baby teeth until they naturally fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth.
Continue brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and attending scheduled dental checkups at our Tempe office. During your visits, we’ll monitor the sealants and reapply if they begin to wear down or chip, ensuring long-term protection.