Pediatric Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a simple yet powerful way to protect your child's teeth from cavities and decay. They work by forming a protective shield over the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, which are most prone to cavities.
Our expert pediatric dentists recommend sealants as a part of a comprehensive oral health plan, especially for children who are at a higher risk for tooth decay.
We believe in proactive care, and dental sealants are one of the many ways we help preserve the natural strength and health of your child's teeth.
Brushing and flossing are the best ways to help prevent cavities, but it’s not always easy to clean every nook and cranny of your teeth – especially those back teeth you use to chew (called molars). Molars are rough, uneven and a favorite place for leftover food and cavity-causing bacteria to hide in their deep, narrow, pits and grooves.
Understanding Dental Sealants
- A Preventive Barrier: A sealant is a protective coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, filling in the natural pits and grooves. This creates a barrier between food, plaque, acid, and these cavity prone areas. Four out of five cavities in children develop in children’s premolars and molars.
- Targeting Vulnerable Areas: The sealants are particularly beneficial for the grooves and depressions in the molars and premolars, areas that are prone to accumulating food and plaque.
- Long-Term Protection: Sealants can protect teeth from decay for many years but need to be checked for wear and chipping at regular dental visits.
How do sealants work?
Think of them as raincoats for your teeth. When the cavity-causing bacteria that live in everyone’s mouth meet leftover food particles, they produce acids that can create holes in teeth. These holes are cavities. After sealant has been applied it keeps those bits of food out and stops bacteria and acid from getting trapped in crevices of the teeth—just like a raincoat keeps you clean and dry during a storm.
When do the molars need to be sealed?
Children and adults can benefit from sealants, but the earlier you get them, the better. Your first molars appear around age 6, and second molars break through around age 12. Sealing these teeth as soon as they come through can keep them cavity-free from the start, which helps save time and money in the long run.
The Process of Applying Dental Sealants
- Quick and Painless: The application of dental sealants is a fast, painless process. The teeth are cleaned, prepared with a special solution, and then dried. The sealant is then painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly and hardens with a blue-light cure.
- Immediate Results: Sealants are effective as soon as they are placed, offering immediate protection against cavities.
- Suitable for Various Ages: While typically applied to children and teenagers, sealants can also be beneficial for adults at risk of decay.
Why Choose Novato Children's Dentistry for Sealants?
Child-Friendly Environment: We ensure that every child feels comfortable and at ease during their visit. Our friendly staff and welcoming environment make dental care a positive experience.
Expert Pediatric Care: Our team specializes in pediatric dentistry, understanding the unique needs of children’s developing teeth.
Comprehensive Dental Health Focus: We believe in a holistic approach to oral health, combining sealants with regular check-ups, cleanings, and education on good oral hygiene practices.
Schedule Your Child's Sealant Appointment
Protect your child's teeth against cavities with the simple, effective solution of dental sealants. At Novato Children's Dentistry, we are committed to providing top-tier dental care to ensure the healthy smiles of our youngest patients. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment for dental sealants.
