If you are looking for a way to prevent cavities for your child in Southern California, Downey Dental Arts can help with dental sealants. Through this safe and effective process, cavities can be reduced or avoided. Our dental team has proven experience working with dental sealants to improve oral health.
A dental sealant is a protective coating that “seals” the teeth. Sealants are particularly used to seal the back teeth (which are for heavy chewing), including molars and premolars. These teeth have grooves and pits in them that can easily form cavities (aka dental caries) because food can easily get stuck there. The dental sealant smooths over these tooth irregularities to prevent caries from forming or getting worse.
Dental sealants are most typically recommended for children after the permanent teeth have come in. The children who most benefit from dental sealants are those at high risk of cavities and/or have deep pockets in their molars. Some children may also have special needs, whereby regular dental hygiene may be more challenging. Occasionally, dental sealants may also be used in adults.
In children, it is recommended to apply dental sealants right after their molars erupt. The first molars erupt around age 6, and the second molars appear around age 12.
Applying dental sealants is a simple, safe process. First, we want to make sure to remove and clean out any existing tooth decay before we apply the dental sealant. Teeth are very carefully cleaned and prepared before the dental sealant is placed.
Teeth are also prepared to accept the sealant through a mild etching process to help the sealant “stick” to the surface of the tooth. Once this is done, a bonding solution may be placed on the tooth. Then, the dental sealant is “painted” on the tooth’s surface. Once the sealant is in place, a special light may be used to set the dental sealant.
Dental sealants can last a long time if well-maintained, up to 10 years or more. They may not last as long in patients who have habits such as teeth grinding or clenching, suffer from acid reflux, or eat a diet that is acidic in nature.
Regular brushing and flossing with a soft-bristled toothbrush will keep dental sealants strong and resilient. We may provide other instructions as well as recommend a special toothpaste with remineralizing properties. Dental sealants can stain if too much coffee, tea, berries, or other staining food or drinks are consumed. Be careful about eating chewy, sticky foods, which can pull off dental sealants if stressed too frequently.
As preventative dentistry goes, dental sealants are very affordable. The cost for dental sealants for children ranges from $30-60 per tooth without insurance. If you have family dental insurance, it usually covers dental sealants for children under 18.
Could Your Child Benefit from Dental Sealants at Downey Dental Arts?
If you live in Southern California and think your child might benefit from dental sealants, contact Downey Dental Arts today by calling (562) 445-3363.
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