Pflugerville, TX
Dental Sealants for Kids in Pflugerville, TX
Protective Dental Sealants for Kids in Pflugerville, TX
It is never too early to start protecting your child's teeth from dental cavities. Teaching your child the importance of proper oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly are two important ways to reduce their risk of dental cavities and oral health issues. Dental sealants can also significantly reduce your child's risk of dental cavities. Dental sealants protect the chewing surfaces of your child's teeth, reducing the risk of bacteria intrusion and tooth decay. Smile Patrol specializes in compassionate, pain-free dentistry for kids and can help you design a personalized oral health care plan for your child. Call us to schedule a consultation for dental sealants for kids in Pflugerville, TX.
Book Online
What Are Dental Sealants for Children?
A dental sealant is a preventive pediatric dentistry service. It is a thin protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of your child's back teeth. It acts as a protective barrier against bacteria, sugar, plaque, and tartar and can prevent cavities and improve your child's oral health. Dental sealants can offer cavity protection for many years.
When Does Your Child Need Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are most effective when they are applied to adult molars; however, we can discuss applying sealants to baby teeth if your child has a high risk of cavities or tooth decay. Most children get their adult molars around the age of 12. You should consider dental sealants for your child if:
- There are deep grooves and pits in your child's molars that could harbor food particles, plaque, and bacteria.
- Your child has special needs and has trouble following a consistent oral hygiene routine.
- Your child has allergies or sinus issues that make it hard for them to breathe through their nose. Breathing through the mouth can reduce saliva production and increase the risk of dry mouth, which can allow cavity-causing bacteria to flourish.
- Your child has thin dental enamel due to genetics.
- Your child had multiple dental cavities or severe tooth decay when they had their baby teeth.
- Your child has had multiple dental fillings or is at risk of needing a tooth extraction due to severe tooth decay and dental cavities.
Efficacy, Longevity, & Benefits of Dental Sealants
Even if your child has trouble brushing their teeth (or remembering to brush their teeth), you can take measures to protect their oral health. Dental sealants, regular visits to a pediatric dentist, and helping your child stick to a consistent oral hygiene routine are important ways to care for your child's oral health. Dental sealants can benefit children of all ages, from the age of two onward. Dental sealants can prevent up to 80% of cavities for two years and offer continuous protection against 50% of cavities for up to four years. This preventative measure is more cost-effective than dental work to repair tooth decay and cavities. Sealants offer long-lasting protection against cavities, and they can last up to 10 years with proper care.
How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
Dental sealants create a protective shield on the chewing surfaces of teeth. Applying dental sealants is a quick, painless process that can be done by our pediatric dentist. We will first dry off your child's teeth and then apply an acidic gel to slightly roughen the surface of the teeth so that the sealant will adhere. We will then rinse off the gel and apply the sealant material using a tool like a paintbrush. We will then cure or harden the sealants using a special UV light. Once sealants are hardened, your child can eat, drink, and take care of their oral hygiene as normal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants for Kids
Are pediatric dental sealants covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans cover pediatric dental sealants, especially for children under 14, since sealants are considered a preventive treatment. Coverage varies by plan, so it is always a good idea to check with your insurance provider before your child's appointment. Our team at Smile Patrol is happy to help verify your benefits and walk you through your options. Give us a call at 512-894-8207 and we will do our best to make the process simple.
Can sealants be placed over a tooth that already has a small cavity?
In some cases, yes. If a cavity is very small and has not yet fully developed, a dentist may apply a sealant over the area to prevent further decay. However, this decision is made on a case-by-case basis after a thorough exam. Dr. Gabby will evaluate your child's teeth and recommend the best course of action to protect their smile.
Will my child be able to feel the sealants on their teeth?
Most children do not notice their sealants after the first day or two. Sealants are very thin, and any initial awareness of them typically fades quickly. If your child mentions discomfort or an uneven bite after their appointment, let us know and we can make a simple adjustment.
How do I know if my child's sealants need to be replaced?
Sealants are checked at every routine exam. Over time, they can chip or wear down, especially in children who grind their teeth. Dr. Gabby will monitor the condition of your child's sealants and let you know if any need to be touched up or reapplied. Keeping up with twice-yearly visits is the best way to make sure your child's pediatric dental sealants are doing their job.
Schedule a Consultation for Child Dental Sealants
Brushing regularly at home, visiting our practice twice a year for exams and cleanings, and avoiding sugary snacks and beverages are excellent ways to protect teeth. Our dental sealants are also an excellent way to protect molars and premolars from developing cavities. Sealants offer an extra layer of protection on the teeth that are most likely to see decay. Smile Patrol, and our entire team of dental professionals are committed to ensuring your family has access to the best dental care available. Call us now or contact us online to learn more about the benefits of dental sealants for children in Pflugerville, TX.