Dental sealants for children and adults for preventative care

Drs. Bryce Eagar, Matthew Geddes, and Andy Mohlman are professionals at Gateway Oral Health Center, located in St. George, Utah, providing a range of dental care solutions for new and returning patients in the Washington County community. This includes preventative dentistry solutions such as dental sealants. Dental sealants are important in protecting natural tooth structures from tooth decay and other potential problems that can negatively affect the health of the smile.

What is a dental sealant?

A dental sealant is best described as a thin, plastic film applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars, the teeth furthest back in the mouth. This sealant acts as a barrier, protecting these teeth from decay-causing bacteria and food particles.

Who can benefit from dental sealants?

Sealants are typically used on children’s teeth since they are more likely than adults to develop cavities in their molars and premolars. However, adults can also benefit from sealants, especially if they have deep grooves in their teeth or if they have had tooth decay in the past. This is also true for patients using a sealant for sensitive teeth, reducing discomfort and pain that might occur with certain foods and beverages.

What happens when placing a cavity sealant on the teeth?

Applying sealants is quick and easy:

The teeth are cleaned and dried.
A special gel is placed onto the tooth surface to help the sealant bond to the tooth.
The dental sealant is painted onto the tooth and allowed to harden.

The entire process usually takes less than 30 minutes.

How long will a dental sealant last?

Sealants will last many years but they will eventually need to be replaced. Your dentist will check the sealants at regular dental visits and reapply them if necessary.

How do I learn more about quality dental sealants?

If you are interested in cavity sealants or other preventative dentistry solutions for your smile, contact Drs. Bryce Eagar, Matthew Geddes, or Andy Mohlman of Gateway Oral Health Center in St. George, UT. Their office is at 720 South River Road, Suite #B-210, and is open to new patients who call (435) 656-0255 for appointments.

Dr. Bryce Eagar

Dr. Bryce Eagar completed his undergraduate studies at the College of Southern Nevada and the University of Nevada in Las Vegas and attended dental school at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. He joined the Minnesota National Guard while in dental school and later transferred to the New Mexico National Guard. He retired from the US Army Reserves as a Major after serving for 13.5 years.

Dr. Matthew D. Geddes

Dr. Matthew D. Geddes earned his BS in Zoology and Chemistry from Weber State University and his DDS from Dalhousie University dental school (in 2006). He has worked as an associate and owner of a general dentistry practice. He is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and a Fellow and Diplomate of the American Orthodontic Society. Dr. Geddes began learning about sleep and TMJ dentistry in 2018, which prompted him to enter the area of biological dentistry.

Dr. Andy Mohlman

Dr. Andy Mohlman brings 20 years of dedicated dental experience to Gateway Oral Health Center in St. George, Utah. A graduate of a respected dental program, he excels in various dental surgeries, such as extractions, grafting, and implant placement. His skills also include laser surgeries and periodontal regeneration, reflecting his commitment to cutting-edge dental care. Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Mohlman is a devoted husband and father of six, who enjoys hiking and mountain biking in Southern Utah. His blend of expertise and personal integrity makes him a trusted figure in the dental community.