Dental sealant is a coating painted on your teeth. It attaches to your child’s teeth, smoothing the rough edges, depressions, and grooves that are typically found on teeth. It gives your child’s teeth a protective coating, helping to prevent tooth decay and cavities.
Sealants are usually done on the back teeth since they are hard to reach and very irregular. Even if your child brushes and flosses properly, he or she may miss some areas. For this reason, sealants are a good way to protect your child’s teeth.
request an appointmentDental sealants are a fast, painless way to protect your child’s teeth from cavities. At Platinum Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend sealants for the back molars, where deep grooves make brushing more difficult. These protective coatings act as a shield against food particles and bacteria that can cause decay.
Applying sealants is a quick, non-invasive procedure. After cleaning and drying the tooth, a thin resin is painted onto the surface and hardened with a curing light. The process takes just a few minutes per tooth and provides years of added protection.
Sealants are especially valuable during the cavity-prone ages of 6 to 14. Children in this age range often struggle to brush effectively, particularly on newly erupted molars. Sealants fill in the pits and fissures, creating a smoother surface that is easier to clean.
With regular dental checkups, we can monitor the condition of sealants and reapply them if needed. While sealants are not a substitute for brushing and flossing, they are a powerful addition to your child’s preventative dental routine.
Sealants FAQs
Q: Are sealants safe for children?
A: Yes, dental sealants are safe and have been widely used for decades with excellent results.
Q: How long do sealants last?
A: Sealants can last up to 5–10 years with proper care and regular dental visits.
Q: Do sealants hurt when applied?
A: No, the application process is completely painless and doesn’t require drilling or anesthesia.
Q: Can my child eat after getting sealants?
A: Yes, your child can eat right away, but we recommend avoiding sticky foods for the first 24 hours.