Sealants Specialist

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are protective coatings that the Greece Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics can apply to your child’s chewing surfaces. By sealing out bacteria, these coatings prevent plaque — a clingy form of bacteria — from sticking to your child’s teeth. Plaque releases toxins on the teeth that eat away at your child’s tooth enamel and cause cavities. 

Preventing cavities before they have a chance to develop protects your child’s oral health and reduces the need for more costly treatments in the future.

What is the application process like for dental sealants?

Sealing a tooth only takes a few minutes. After cleaning the targeted tooth, the team applies the sealant as a liquid. The resin material flows into the crevices of the tooth to prevent food debris from sticking to the chewing surface and causing bacteria buildup. The sealant either hardens on its own or the team uses a special light to speed up the process.

When should my child get dental sealants?

The team at Greece Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics finds that sealants are most effective with early application. The moment your child’s molars emerge, they become vulnerable to tooth decay. By opting for sealants as early as possible, your child can stop cavities from forming.

How long do sealants last?

With proper care, dental sealants can last up to nine years or more. As your child ages, their sealants may wear down or loosen and lose their tight seal. The team can always reapply sealants to protect vulnerable teeth from decay.

What can I do to care for my child’s sealants?

Caring for your child’s dental sealants is one of the simplest ways to protect their oral health. To prevent tooth decay, you should make sure your child:

• Brushes twice a day
• Flosses regularly
• Uses fluoride toothpaste
• Visits the dentist twice a year
• Follows a healthy, low-sugar diet

Sealants are less invasive and more economical than restorative cavity treatments, like fillings and dental crowns — tooth-shaped caps that cover and protect damaged or decayed teeth. Choosing sealants now can help you avoid more costly treatments in the future.

To learn more about dental sealants, call Greece Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics or schedule an appointment online today.