Wondering about dental sealants for your child? At London Dental Specialists, we understand parents' concerns about protecting young teeth. Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, preventing 80% of cavities over two years. These quick, painless treatments shield the deep grooves of molars where decay often starts. Most children benefit from sealants on permanent molars as they emerge, typically between ages 5-7 for first molars and 11-14 for second molars. Some children may even need sealants on baby teeth with deep grooves. Our paediatric dental team is ready to answer your questions about this simple preventive measure that can save your child from future dental problems and discomfort.
What are pediatric dental sealants?
Pediatric dental sealants are thin, protective coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of children's back teeth (molars). These sealants act as a barrier, preventing food particles and bacteria from settling in the deep grooves where toothbrushes can't reach. Dental sealants prevent approximately 80% of cavities over 2 years in the back teeth, where 9 out of 10 cavities typically occur. At London Dental Specialists, our sealants are made from dental-grade resin that hardens quickly and provides long-lasting protection for your child's teeth.
At what age should children get dental sealants?
Children should receive dental sealants on their permanent molars as soon as these teeth emerge, before decay has a chance to develop. The first permanent molars (known as \"6-year molars\") typically appear between ages 5 and 7. The second permanent molars (\"12-year molars\") generally emerge when a child is between 11 and 14 years old. At London Dental Specialists, we recommend scheduling an assessment when your child's first permanent molars appear to determine the optimal timing for sealant application.
Can dental sealants be applied to baby teeth?
Yes, dental sealants can be appropriate for primary (baby) teeth in certain cases. If your child's baby teeth have deep depressions and grooves that are difficult to clean, sealants may be recommended to protect these vulnerable areas. While our primary focus at London Dental Specialists is protecting permanent molars, we evaluate each child individually and may suggest sealants for baby teeth if they are particularly susceptible to decay and will remain in the mouth for several more years.
How long do dental sealants last?
With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental sealants can provide protection for up to 10 years. However, sealants do wear down over time and may need to be checked and occasionally replaced. At London Dental Specialists, we examine the condition of existing sealants during routine check-ups and can reapply material if necessary to ensure continuous protection throughout the cavity-prone years (ages 6 through 14).
Are there any disadvantages to dental sealants?
While dental sealants are highly beneficial, there are a few considerations to be aware of:
- Sealants require proper application techniques; incomplete coverage or contamination with saliva can reduce effectiveness
- Resin-based sealants may contain trace amounts of BPA, though the exposure is minimal and considered safe by dental authorities
- Sealants may occasionally be less effective on certain children depending on their oral chemistry and habits
- Sealants are not a substitute for good oral hygiene and regular dental visits
At London Dental Specialists, our experienced team uses advanced techniques to ensure optimal application and effectiveness.
Does getting dental sealants hurt?
No, the application of dental sealants is completely painless. The procedure is quick, non-invasive, and requires no drilling or removal of tooth structure. At London Dental Specialists, we ensure your child remains comfortable throughout the simple process, which involves cleaning the tooth, applying a special gel to prepare the surface, rinsing, drying, and then painting on the sealant material before hardening it with a special light.
Are dental sealants covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for pediatric dental sealants, particularly for children within certain age ranges. Coverage typically focuses on permanent molars rather than primary teeth or other tooth surfaces. At London Dental Specialists, our administrative team can help verify your specific insurance benefits regarding sealants and explain any potential out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.
How are dental sealants applied?
The application process for dental sealants at London Dental Specialists involves several simple steps:
- The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to remove plaque and food debris
- The tooth is dried and isolated to keep it dry during the procedure
- An etching solution is applied to roughen the tooth surface, helping the sealant bond effectively
- The tooth is rinsed and dried again
- The liquid sealant material is painted onto the chewing surface
- A special curing light is used to harden the sealant
- The dentist evaluates the sealant to ensure proper coverage and bite comfort
The entire process takes only a few minutes per tooth and requires no recovery time.
Do children with sealants still need to brush and floss?
Absolutely. While dental sealants provide excellent protection for the chewing surfaces of molars, they only cover these specific areas. Regular brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing remain essential for protecting all tooth surfaces and maintaining overall oral health. At London Dental Specialists, we emphasize that sealants are just one component of a comprehensive preventive dental care strategy that includes proper home care, regular check-ups, and a balanced diet.
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