It’s important to protect your children’s teeth against tooth decay and cavities. It’s one of your responsibilities as a parent. That’s why you choose 7 Day Dental, whose family dental care includes specialists in pediatric dentistry (pedodontics). Along with regular exams, cleanings and daily brushing and flossing, our pedodontists recommend applying dental sealants to your children’s teeth. Learn more about sealants by reading the answers to the Frequently Asked Questions below.
What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Sealants are painted on as a liquid and quickly harden to form a shield over the tooth. Because the chewing surfaces of the molars have numerous pits and fissures, they can be hard to clean, even with proper brushing technique. Food particles and germs can become trapped there, causing tooth decay. Sealants are especially recommended for children.
How long do sealants last?
How long do sealants last?Sealants can last up to 10 years. They need to be checked at regular dental check-ups to make sure they are not chipped or worn away. If sealants are damaged, your dentist can repair sealants by adding more sealant material.
Is there any pain or discomfort when sealants are applied?
No. Applying sealants do not require drilling or scraping. It is quick and painless.
Does insurance pay for sealants?
Many insurance plans pay for sealants. Check with your insurance company for details.
Who should get sealants?
Children should get sealants on their permanent molars as soon as the teeth come in — before decay attacks the teeth. Sometimes the bicuspids in front of the molars may need to be sealed. Teenagers and young adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also get sealants.
Should sealants also be put on baby teeth?
If your child’s baby teeth have deep pits and grooves, your dentist may recommend sealants. Baby teeth play an important role in holding the correct spacing for permanent teeth, so it is important to keep baby teeth healthy, so they don’t fall out early.
What if a small cavity is accidentally covered by a sealant?
If a sealant has covered a small cavity, the decay will not spread further. This is because the cavity is sealed off from its food and germ supply.
Call us for an appointment at 866-989-3335. We are sure you will be pleased with our expert and friendly pedodontists. For those who live in the Anaheim area, our Lincoln Avenue office has a special children’s waiting area with games, toys and a TV, as well as a carpeted floor and comfortable seating for the caregivers. We look forward to seeing you.