Sealing out decay to keep your child’s teeth healthy and strong with preventative dental sealants
Just because your back teeth are not visible does not mean they require any less attention! In fact, your extended “dental family” at Groat Pediatric Dentistry in San Pedro, California, encourages children to take special care when brushing, flossing, and otherwise cleaning these “hidden teeth.” However, we also appreciate that there are special challenges to keeping these teeth free of the foods and bacteria that promote the development of destructive decay. Notably, it can be challenging for kids with little mouths and developing motor skills to reach and thoroughly brush those teeth properly. So, we may recommend a “helper” in the form of dental sealants.
Sealing out tooth decay
Dental sealants are a quick, painless, easy, non-invasive, and inexpensive way to protect your child’s teeth from damage that leads to discomfort, costly restorative care, and even tooth loss. This dental service simply involves our dentist, Dr. Christopher Groat, “painting” on a safe and transparent liquid that is then hardened to form a protective coating over the back teeth.
These teeth can be difficult for both kids and adults alike to clean. Not only are they at the very back of our mouths, but they also feature grooved surfaces. These nooks and crannies tend to trap food particles. When left on the teeth, food can mix with harmful bacteria to form plaque. This process also gives rise to acids that can eventually break down the teeth, causing cavities and other damage.
Given these challenges, it is no surprise that nine out of ten cavities form in these back teeth! We can stop these trends with the sealant process.
Sealants FAQs
At what age should my child get dental sealants?
Dental sealants are often recommended when the first permanent molars come in, which typically happens around age six. A second set of molars may follow around age twelve, and those teeth can also benefit from sealants. The timing matters because applying sealants early helps protect teeth before decay has a chance to develop. Nonetheless, young children with pronounced grooves in their baby teeth might also be suitable candidates at times. Your dentist will evaluate your child’s teeth and determine the best timing based on their individual development and cavity risk.
How long do dental sealants typically last?
Sealants are designed to be durable, but they are not permanent. In many cases, they can last several years with proper care. Their longevity depends on factors such as chewing habits, oral hygiene, and natural wear over time. During routine dental visits, the dentist will check the condition of the sealants to ensure they remain intact and effective. If any areas show signs of wear or breakdown, they can be easily repaired or replaced. Regular monitoring helps ensure your child continues to receive the protective benefits that sealants are meant to provide.
Do sealants change how my child’s teeth feel or function?
Sealants are very thin and designed to blend naturally with the tooth surface, so most children do not notice any difference after they are placed. They do not interfere with normal chewing or biting. Instead, they create a smoother surface that can actually make teeth easier to keep clean. Because the material is applied only to the outer surface of the tooth, it does not affect how the teeth function. Children typically adjust immediately and can return to normal eating and daily activities without any discomfort.
Are dental sealants still necessary if my child brushes well?
Even with excellent brushing habits, it can be difficult to fully clean the grooves of back teeth. These areas are naturally uneven and can trap food and bacteria in ways that a toothbrush may not completely reach. Sealants provide an added layer of protection in these vulnerable spots. Think of them as a supplement to good hygiene rather than a replacement. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits remain essential, but sealants help reduce the risk of decay in areas that are harder to maintain with brushing alone.
Can sealants be applied if a tooth already has early signs of decay?
In some cases, sealants may still be used if the decay is very minor and limited to the outermost layer of the tooth. Applying a sealant over an early area of concern can help prevent it from progressing further. However, if the decay has advanced beyond a certain point, other treatments may be more appropriate. The dentist will carefully evaluate the tooth before making a recommendation. Early detection is key, which is why regular checkups are important for determining whether sealants are a suitable option.
How do I care for my child’s teeth after sealants are placed?
Caring for teeth with sealants is simple and does not require any special steps beyond a good oral hygiene routine. Your child should continue brushing twice daily and flossing regularly. It is also helpful to avoid habits like chewing on hard objects, which can wear down the sealant over time. Routine dental visits allow the dentist to check that the sealants remain intact. Maintaining consistent care at home helps ensure the sealants continue to provide effective protection against decay.
Are sealants a cost-effective preventive option for families?
Sealants are considered one of the more affordable preventive treatments available in pediatric dentistry. By helping reduce the likelihood of cavities, they can lower the chances of needing more involved procedures like fillings or crowns later. This makes them a practical investment in your child’s long-term oral health. Many dental plans also provide coverage for sealants, especially for children. When combined with regular preventive care, sealants can help families manage both dental health and future costs more effectively.
Ask us about sealants today!
Sealants require minimal preparation. We just need to ensure the teeth are clean and dry before painting on the sealant material. The material itself is safe, and the procedure is well tolerated. In fact, it helps to protect against the sensitivity and discomfort associated with early-stage enamel erosion and later decay. It just takes a few minutes for us to apply and harden the sealant using a special curing light. So, we can often easily integrate this service into your child’s regular hygiene appointments. Plus, Dr. Groat can monitor the state and condition of the sealant during your check-ups. Sealants can last a long time, but we may need to repair or replace them later.
Also, while they are appropriate for kids of all ages, sealants may be recommended as soon as the first permanent back teeth start coming in at around six. Call Groat Pediatric Dentistry of San Pedro, CA, at (310) 731-1227 to learn more about sealants and myriad other products and services available to keep your child’s smile happy and healthy.
