Dental sealants

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings on the surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant forms a protective cover over the teeth, giving them an extra form of protection against pieces of food that may get into the teeth. The sealant prevents any tooth decay that is usually caused by food particles getting stuck in vulnerable areas of the back teeth.

Where are dental sealants placed?

In most cases, dental sealants are placed on permanent molars, however they can also be placed on baby teeth that have the risk of developing cavities. For those teeth that are not always brushed properly, sealants are the ideal way to protect them.

When is it a good time to check and see if your child can benefit from dental sealants?

The first set of permanent molars begin to grow in at age 6, which is the ideal time for the child to come into our office, Advanced Dental Bronx – Children's Dentist, for a check-up. At this check-up we will be able to determine if the child is ready for sealants. The second set of molars begin to grow in at age 12, and must be protected by sealants as well. The quicker the dental sealants are placed on the permanent molars the quicker your child will have the proper protection needed against cavities.

Why should your child get dental sealants?

At Advanced Dental Bronx – Children's Dentist, we understand that children often neglect brushing their back teeth (molars), and these teeth are the ones especially under the risk of getting cavities. The back teeth are used primarily for chewing and come into contact with food the most allowing for bacteria and food particles to hide in the spaces in the teeth. This combination of food and bacteria hiding in the molars can lead to tooth decay or cavities and dental sealants are the perfect way to protect your child’s teeth from such problems.

What are dental sealants and how are they done?

The process of applying sealants takes only up to a few minutes and is completely painless, thanks to our specialists at Advanced Dental Bronx – Children's Dentist. The patient needs little to no preparation in order to get dental sealants, although this process is often done after a professional dental cleaning. The sealant itself is a white coloured resin which is coated on top of the teeth, saving the vulnerable areas of the teeth that are prone to developing cavities. The sealant is then hardened using a special light on the teeth. The process is quick, painless, and simple for the patient and results in years of protection.

What are the benefits of dental sealants?

Dental sealants offer up to 10 years of protection against cavities and tooth decay. With the process being completely painless and finished in a matter of minutes, dental sealants are the perfect was to protect your child’s teeth. Dental sealants are also made from a natural looking tooth colour, and are virtually invisible and unseen. Our specialists at Advanced Dental Bronx – Children's Dentist ensure that each patient has the best possible treatment and a fun experience at our offices.

Do sealants have to be redone?

Although the sealants may offer many years of protection, they may wear down and have to be replaced. Brushing the teeth with the sealants applied will allow the sealants to be preserved for a longer period of time. Our specialists offer the very best treatment for every patient, which may allow your sealants to last for years before needing to replace them.