DENTAL SEALANTS
Simple Protection for a Stronger, Healthier Smile
At Eastside Children’s Dentistry, we’re proud to offer dental sealants in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, providing children and teens with a simple yet powerful way to protect their teeth from cavities. Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth—where decay is most likely to occur. Led by Dr. Sandyha Menon, our experienced pediatric dental team is committed to helping your child build a foundation for lifelong oral health with preventive treatments like sealants.
We’re pleased to provide dental sealants to patients in Chagrin Falls, OH. To schedule an appointment today, please call (440)-708-1331.
Why Choose Dental Sealants?
Sealants are one of the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay, especially in children and teens. Molars and premolars have deep grooves that can be hard to clean thoroughly, even with good brushing habits. Sealants fill in these grooves, creating a smooth surface that’s easier to keep clean.
Benefits of dental sealants include:
- Long-lasting protection against cavities
- Quick, comfortable, and non-invasive application
- Reduced risk of decay in hard-to-clean areas
- Cost-effective preventive care
- Ideal for kids and teens with newly erupted permanent molars
With sealants, your child can enjoy added protection during the most cavity-prone years.
What Dental Sealants Help Prevent
Dental sealants are most commonly applied to the back teeth—where about 80% of cavities in children occur. They help prevent:
- Cavities in molars and premolars
- Buildup of food particles and bacteria in deep grooves
- The need for more extensive dental treatments down the line
Sealants are most effective when applied shortly after permanent molars come in—typically around ages 6 and 12.
What to Expect with Dental Sealants
The process of applying dental sealants is quick, painless, and often completed during a regular dental visit. Here’s what to expect:
Initial Evaluation
We’ll examine your child’s teeth to determine if sealants are recommended based on age, oral health, and risk of decay.
Tooth Preparation
The teeth are cleaned and dried, then a special gel is applied to help the sealant bond to the surface.
Sealant Application
The sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel and hardened with a blue curing light. It forms a shield over the tooth’s grooves, protecting it from decay.
The entire procedure takes only a few minutes per tooth and requires no anesthesia or drilling.
Caring for Sealants After Application
Once applied, sealants require minimal care beyond your child’s normal oral hygiene routine. To keep them effective:
- Maintain regular brushing and flossing habits
- Avoid chewing hard objects like ice or pens
- Visit the dentist every 6 months for checkups
Sealants can last 5 to 10 years, and we’ll monitor them during routine visits to make sure they remain intact and protective.
How Sealants Fit into Preventive Dental Care
Sealants are just one part of a strong preventive dental plan. When combined with good oral hygiene, fluoride treatments, and regular dental checkups, they help create a solid defense against tooth decay.
Preventive care, especially in childhood, reduces the need for restorative treatments like fillings and crowns in the future—and helps build a healthy dental routine for life.
Are Dental Sealants Right for Your Child?
Most children benefit from sealants once their permanent molars begin to emerge. If your child is prone to cavities or has deep grooves in their teeth, sealants may be especially helpful.
During your child’s visit, Dr. Menon will evaluate their risk for decay and discuss whether sealants are the right choice.
FAQs About Dental Sealants
Q: Who should get dental sealants?
Children and teenagers are ideal candidates since they’re most cavity-prone, but adults without fillings in their back teeth can also benefit. The best time to apply them is shortly after permanent molars emerge, typically around ages 6 and 12.
Q: How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants can last 5-10 years with proper care, though they should be checked regularly during dental visits. They may need replacement if they chip, wear down, or fall out over time.
Q: Are dental sealants safe?
Yes, dental sealants are completely safe and have been used successfully for decades. The small amount of BPA exposure from sealants is significantly less than what you’d get from food and environmental sources.
Q: Do sealants hurt to apply?
No, applying dental sealants is painless and doesn’t require drilling or anesthesia. The process involves cleaning the tooth, applying the sealant material, and hardening it with a special light in just a few minutes per tooth.
Q: Do insurance plans cover dental sealants?
Most dental insurance plans cover sealants for children, typically up to age 18, since they’re considered preventive care. Adult coverage varies by plan, so it’s best to check with your insurance provider.
Protect Your Child’s Smile with Dental Sealants
At Eastside Children’s Dentistry, we believe prevention is the best form of protection. Dental sealants are a quick, affordable way to keep your child’s teeth healthy, strong, and cavity-free.
Call us today to schedule your child’s dental sealant appointment at our [primary_city] office. We’re here to help them smile with confidence! Please call (440)-708-1331 today and let’s book your child’s appointment.