Our Treatments
At Pediatric Dentistry of San Marcos, we are proponents of prevention as the first line of defense against dental disease. Dr. Nadia Bala and Dr. Greg Allen are pleased to offer dental sealants, a highly effective measure to prevent cavities on the chewing surfaces of your child's permanent molars and premolars. We're all about building the foundation for healthy, happy smiles for life.
What Are Dental Sealants and How Do They Work?
The chewing surfaces of the back teeth have grooves and crevices that trap plaque and food particles, providing harmful oral bacteria with the perfect environment to flourish. Even the most meticulous oral hygiene practices, including thorough brushing and flossing, may not effectively clean every nook and cranny, leaving your child at risk for tooth decay. Research shows that up to 80 percent of cavities form on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth.
Dental sealants are ultra-thin, BPA-free plastic coatings we paint onto the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars to create a physical barrier, protecting them from cavity-causing bacteria and acids. The painless process is highly effective at preventing cavities, ensuring your child enjoys long-term healthy smiles.
When Are Dental Sealants Placed?
Dental sealants are not usually applied to baby teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends sealing a child's permanent premolars and molars as they emerge, around age six for the first set and age 12 for the second set. Placing sealants as soon as these teeth come in helps keep them cavity-free right from the start, saving you time and money in the long run.
If your child hasn't had sealants placed as soon as the permanent molars emerged, don't wait. The best time to get your child's teeth sealed is now!
What Is the Dental Sealants Procedure?
After carefully cleaning, rinsing, and drying your child's teeth, Dr. Nadia Bala or Dr. Greg Allen will place an etching solution to help the sealant bond to the tooth enamel. Next is applying the liquid sealant, which will flow into the pits and fissures, creating a shield against harmful bacteria. A special curing light will harden the sealant material. The last step is checking the sealant placement. Dental sealants are highly effective in lowering the risk of tooth decay and cavities.
Caring for Teeth with Sealants
Applying dental sealants is not a substitute for good oral hygiene practices. It is important to encourage your child to brush and floss regularly and to limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks. Remind your child not to bite down on hard or sticky foods or objects, which can damage the sealant material and the natural tooth enamel.
Dental sealants usually last for a few years, but some may eventually wear and need to be replaced. We will evaluate the sealant material during your child's regular dental exams to rule out any signs of damage.
Dental Sealants Near Me in San Marcos, California
Dr. Nadia Bala and Dr. Greg Allen highly recommend having sealants applied for all children, especially those at high risk for tooth decay. The Pediatric Dentistry of San Marcos team believes in prevention rather than treating cavities after they develop. We are all about maintaining healthy, beautiful smiles for life.
Looking for exceptional care from the best pediatric dentists in San Marcos? We invite you to call 760-798-2825 to schedule your child's appointment or complete our online appointment request form today!
We're Ready For Your Ducklings!
We are excited to care for little ones and be part of their journey to bright and healthy smiles. Follow the link to request an appointment that best fits your busy schedule. We can’t wait to meet you!
