Dental Sealant Treatment in New York
Essential Preventative Care for Children's Dental Health in New York
To help your child avoid cavities and other forms of tooth decay, Dr. Jessica Lynch and Dr. Robert N. Goldsmith offer dental sealants in New York City, New York. Our pediatric dentists at West Side Kids Dental can guide you through the advantages of this treatment and how it can help your child’s teeth.
Make an appointment for a sealant treatment in New York by calling (844) 910-3557 or through our online contact form.
What Are Dental Sealants??
A sealant is a preventive dental treatment that our pediatric dentists may recommend to protect patients’ teeth from tooth decay. A dental sealant is made of a clear or tooth-colored resin material which is painted onto the chewing surface of the posterior teeth. By blocking out the bacteria and food debris that lead to tooth decay, sealants act to prevent cavities on the posterior dentition. The dental sealant forms a smooth layer over the natural pits and grooves of the tooth surface, making it easier to effectively clean teeth with normal brushing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are dental sealants important for children?
Children are particularly prone to cavities for several reasons. Their newly erupted permanent molars have deep grooves that are difficult to clean effectively with brushing alone. Additionally, their tooth enamel is still maturing and may be more susceptible to acid attacks from bacteria. Even with diligent brushing and flossing, it can be challenging to reach all the nooks and crannies on the chewing surfaces of their back teeth. Dental sealants provide an extra layer of defense, significantly reducing the risk of developing cavities in these high-risk areas. By preventing cavities, sealants help avoid the need for more extensive and potentially uncomfortable dental treatments in the future.
How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants are durable and can last for several years, typically between five to ten years, depending on factors such as chewing habits and oral hygiene. During your child's regular dental checkups at West Side Kids Dental, we will examine the condition of the sealants and reapply them if necessary to ensure continued protection.
Is my child a candidate for dental sealants?
Dental sealants are most often recommended for children. Our pediatric dentists frequently recommend sealants for the permanent molars as soon as they come in, usually between the ages of 6 and 12 years. We may also recommend dental sealants for patients whose teeth are prone to decay or have not been restored, or have suffered from decay in the past.
Is the application of a dental sealant painful for my child?
No. The process is completely painless. It involves no drilling or shots, just a cleaning, painting of the liquid sealant, and a quick light to set it. Most children find it simple and easy.
Will sealants change how my child chews or eats food?
No. Dental sealants are extremely thin and only cover the chewing surface. After the initial application, your child won't even notice they are there, and their bite and chewing will not be affected.
How often will sealants need to be reapplied or touched up?
Sealants should be checked during every routine dental visit. If a piece of the sealant has chipped or worn away, a quick touch-up can be performed immediately to ensure the tooth remains fully protected.
How long after getting sealants can my child eat or drink?
Generally, children can eat and drink immediately after the appointment. The curing light hardens the sealant within seconds. However, we may recommend avoiding hard or sticky foods for the rest of the day just to ensure the strongest initial bond.
Contact Us to Learn More About Dental Sealants in NY
We can apply dental sealants in just one short, comfortable visit at our practice. Sealants can be a powerful tool in preventing decay and keeping a smile healthy.
To learn more about our New York dental sealants and how we can keep your child’s smile in good health, we welcome you to contact us at (844) 910-3557 or visit our office today.
