Dental Sealants: Patient FAQs

April 10, 2023

Dental sealants are made of body-safe plastic polymers

Dental sealants can be one of the most effective routes of cavity protection for children, teenagers and adults. Sealants act as a thin plastic barrier, keeping bacteria and food debris out of tooth crevices and preventing cavities from forming. They are also placed to stop the earliest stages of decay rather than placing a filling. Sealants are painless to install and can provide years of lasting protection.


What are dental sealants made out of?

Dental sealants are made of body-safe plastic polymers. The material is in a liquid form, so it can be painted onto a tooth and then cured with a UV light until it is in a hardened state. The process only takes a few minutes for your dentist or hygienist to apply the sealant to each tooth.


Who needs dental sealants?

Dental sealants are often recommended for children because they are prone to cavities at such an early age. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from them.


How long do sealants last?

Dental sealants are highly recommended in part because they can be applied once and offer some level of protection for several years. According o the CDC, sealants may protect against 80 percent of cavities for up to 24 months but offer around 50 percent protection for as long as four years. 


Will you be able to see the dental sealants?

Dental sealants are clear once cured. Therefore, they do not change the appearance of a tooth at all. In fact, most people would never know a dental sealant was in place unless they were told because the protective layer is so difficult to see. 


How well do dental sealants work?

Dental sealants can work exceptionally well. We often neglect good brushing and flossing habits, especially with the teeth further in the back of the mouth. The sealants protect the tooth from acidic, sugary foods that can contribute to decay when brushing habits may not be at their best. 


Are dental sealants safe?

Dental sealants are considered safe. The material used is safe for the body and the likelihood of the sealant coming off and causing problems is extremely low. Very rarely, someone may have a mild sensitivity to the materials used due to an allergy. However, any allergies will be discussed before treatment.  Are you looking for an easy way to lower your risk of cavities? Reach out to discuss dental sealants and schedule an appointment. 

Veneers vs. Teeth Whitening: Which Option Is Best for Your Smile in Spring, TX?

November 12, 2025
A bright, confident smile can transform the way you feel about yourself—and how others see you. If you’re searching for a cosmetic dentist in Spring, TX, you’ve likely come across two of the most popular treatments for enhancing your smile: veneers and teeth whitening . Both options can improve the look of your teeth, but they work in different ways and deliver different results. So— which treatment is right for you? What Is Teeth Whitening? Teeth whitening is a noninvasive cosmetic treatment designed to lighten natural tooth color by removing surface stains. Whether stains come from coffee, wine, smoking, or aging, whitening can help restore brightness. Benefits of Teeth Whitening Fast results Non-invasive More affordable than veneers Great option before special events Performed safely by a cosmetic dentist When Teeth Whitening May Not Be Enough While whitening helps remove stains, it cannot correct: Deep internal discoloration Chipped or cracked teeth Crooked or uneven teeth Dark spots from trauma or medication If these issues apply to you, veneers may be a better option. Best for: Patients with healthy teeth who want a noticeable brightness boost. Considering Whitening in Spring, TX? Professional whitening at Rayford Dental on Rayford Road provides brighter, more even results than drugstore products. Our team customizes your whitening plan for safe, lasting results. What Are Veneers? Veneers are ultra-thin porcelain shells bonded to the front of your teeth to improve their shape, shade, and overall appearance. This cosmetic treatment offers a complete smile transformation—fast. Benefits of Veneers Instantly whiter, more symmetrical smile Can correct chips, cracks, gaps, and uneven teeth Long-lasting (10–15 years) Stain-resistant Natural-looking results Things to Consider About Veneers Higher investment than whitening Irreversible process Requires two visits Best for: Patients seeking long-term cosmetic results beyond whitening. Veneers vs. Teeth Whitening: Key Differences While both veneers and teeth whitening can improve your smile, they do so in different ways. Teeth whitening focuses on brightening your natural teeth. It works best for people with stains caused by foods, drinks, tobacco, or aging. The results are noticeable but not permanent, lasting months to a few years depending on lifestyle habits. Whitening is non-invasive, budget-friendly, and a great first step for mild to moderate discoloration. On the other hand, veneers provide a more complete cosmetic transformation. They are thin porcelain shells placed on the front of the teeth to improve color, shape, size, and alignment. Veneers can correct issues that whitening cannot, including chips, cracks, gaps, and deep internal stains. They typically last 10–15+ years and resist discoloration, but they require a greater investment and minimal enamel reduction. In short: Choose teeth whitening if you want a quick brightness boost and your teeth are otherwise healthy. Choose veneers if you want a long-lasting, dramatic transformation that addresses cosmetic concerns beyond color. Which Option Is Best for You? Choose Teeth Whitening if: Your teeth are healthy You only want a brighter smile You want a lower-cost cosmetic treatment You prefer a non-invasive option Whitening may not be ideal if: You have deep discoloration or structural damage Choose Veneers if: You want long-term cosmetic enhancement You have chips, gaps, or uneven teeth You want a dramatic transformation You want permanent white teeth that resist stains Veneers offer stronger cosmetic benefits for those seeking a Hollywood-style smile. What Do Patients Choose Most in Spring, TX? At Rayford Dental , many patients begin with whitening but choose veneers if they desire: A more uniform smile Better symmetry A dramatic, lasting change Both treatments can deliver excellent results—but they serve different goals. The best way to decide is through a personalized consultation with our experienced cosmetic dental team. Why Choose Rayford Dental for Cosmetic Dentistry in Spring, TX? If you’re researching veneers in Spring, TX or teeth whitening near Rayford Road , choosing the right dentist is essential. At Rayford Dental , we offer: ✔ Personalized smile evaluations ✔ Advanced cosmetic techniques ✔ Transparent pricing and financing guidance ✔ Natural-looking results designed for your face and features ✔ Gentle, comfortable care We don’t just improve your smile, we help you feel more confident every day. Ready for a Brighter Smile? Whether you're leaning toward veneers or whitening, our team will help you choose what best fits your goals, budget, and lifestyle. ➡️ Schedule your smile consultation today When it comes to enhancing your smile, both veneers and teeth whitening are powerful options. Whitening is ideal for quick, affordable improvements, while veneers offer long-lasting, comprehensive cosmetic results. If you’re unsure, we can help you explore each option with a customized treatment plan tailored to your smile goals. Ready to love your smile again? Book your cosmetic consultation today at Rayford Dental in Spring, TX
dental tooth extraction

Tooth Extraction: What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Procedure in Spring, TX

October 15, 2025
Experiencing tooth pain or damage? Get expert tooth extraction care at Rayford Dental in Spring, TX. Book your appointment today.