Dental Sealants
Dental Sealants for Kids
Cavity Prevention at Kidz Smile Pediatric Dentistry in Lower East Side, NYC
At Kidz Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we prioritize prevention to keep your child’s smile healthy and cavity-free. One of the most effective tools in our preventive care program is dental sealants—a simple, yet powerful solution for protecting young teeth, especially the molars, from tooth decay.
According to the American Dental Association, dental sealants can reduce the risk of cavities in children’s molars by up to 80%. That’s why they are commonly recommended as part of your child’s comprehensive dental care.
Why Are Dental Sealants Important?
While daily brushing, flossing, and a balanced diet are essential, they may not be enough to prevent decay—especially on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Molars and premolars have natural grooves and pits that can trap food particles and bacteria. These areas are often hard for children to clean thoroughly, making them especially prone to cavities.
Dental sealants add an extra layer of protection by covering these grooves with a safe, plastic-like coating that seals out bacteria and food debris. This helps prevent the formation of cavities and can even stop early decay from progressing.
How Do Sealants Work?
Sealants act as a barrier, filling in the deep grooves of the chewing surfaces of the permanent back teeth. The coating prevents plaque, food particles, and bacteria from settling into areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush.
Beyond preventing cavities, dental sealants can also be applied to areas of early decay, helping to stop further damage before a filling is necessary.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Applying dental sealants is a quick, painless, and non-invasive procedure that can be completed during a routine dental visit:
Cleaning the Tooth: The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to remove any plaque or debris.
Preparing the Surface: A special solution is applied to help the sealant bond to the tooth.
Application: The sealant is brushed onto the tooth surface.
Curing: A light wand is used to harden the sealant and set it in place.
Once applied, dental sealants can last for several years. At every checkup, we’ll examine them for wear and reapply if necessary.
Long-Lasting Protection You Can Count On
Dental sealants are durable and reliable, offering long-term protection during the years when your child is most vulnerable to tooth decay. At Kidz Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend applying sealants soon after the permanent molars erupt—usually between the ages of 6 and 12.
If you’re looking for dental sealants in Lower East Side, NYC, our caring and experienced team is here to help keep your child’s smile healthy and strong.
FAQs About Dental Sealants
Q: Are dental sealants safe for kids?
A: Yes, dental sealants are completely safe. They are made from materials approved for use in children and are non-toxic.
Q: At what age should my child get sealants?
A: Sealants are typically recommended when the first and second permanent molars come in—around ages 6 and 12.
Q: How long do sealants last?
A: With proper care, sealants can last up to 5 years or longer. We check them at each dental visit and reapply them as needed.
Q: Do sealants hurt to apply?
A: Not at all. The procedure is quick and painless—no drilling or numbing is required.
Q: Can sealants be placed over small cavities?
A: Yes. In some cases, sealants can be used to halt the progression of early decay and avoid the need for a filling.
