Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a great way to help protect the vulnerable grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of children’s teeth, especially the back molars. Approximately 75% of childhood dental cavities and tooth decay form in hard-to-clean grooves and pits. Children who are just learning how to brush may have a hard time cleaning into these areas, allowing bacteria, plaque, and food debris to accumulate and begin to eat away at the tooth enamel. Dental sealants are used to seal off these bumps and grooves, providing a smoother surface that may be easier for your child to clean.

Sealants are usually applied around the age of 6 or 7 when the 1st permanent molars or “6-year molars” come into the mouth and again around the age of 12 or 13 when the 2nd permanent molars or “12-year molars” come into the mouth.

Application of Dental Sealants

The application of dental sealants is generally a quick and painless one. Your child’s teeth will be cleaned, and the teeth we are sealing will be kept dry. The sealants will be applied as a liquid painted onto the teeth, and a special light will be used to help dry the sealant. Once sealants have been applied, you will care for your child’s teeth, as usual, making sure to practice good oral hygiene routines.

If you’re interested in making an appointment for your children to receive dental sealants, please don’t hesitate to contact Little Smiles of Delaware. We want to help your children have a cavity-free childhood!