Sealants El Monte, CA

Dental sealants offer a fast and easy way of safeguarding your child's teeth, serving as barriers to cavity-prone areas. They are normally applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth and sometimes used to cover deep pits and grooves. Both primary and permanent teeth of a child can be benefitted from sealants. Sealants are considered to be relatively safe for children.

The dentist can apply the sealants in a relatively simple procedure. The sealant is smeared onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and consequently hardens. This plastic resin is bonded into the pits and fissure of the back teeth' chewing surfaces. The sealant acts as a shield, thus protecting the enamel from plaque and acids. The tooth surface will be shielded from decay as long as the sealant remains intact. The force of normal chewing can be very well handled by the sealants and may last several years before a reapplication is required. During your regular dental visits, the dentist will monitor the sealants' condition and reapply them when necessary. The probability of developing pit and tooth decay begins early in life, so children and teenagers are at obvious risk. However, sealants can be beneficial for adults as well.

How are the Sealants applied?

The application of a dental sealant is a relatively fast and painless process. There is no drilling or numbing involved in its application. After a quick examination of your child's teeth, the procedure is started with your child being made to sit in a regular dental chair. The teeth which need sealing are cleaned with a polishing brush and gritty toothpaste. With a cotton roll, the teeth are dried to isolate them from any saliva from the tongue and cheeks. The surface of the teeth being sealed is applied with an etching solution to ensure better sealant adherence. The teeth are once again dried after rinsing off the etching solution. A thin layer of bonding layer followed by a sealant is applied directly to the tooth's surface, covering the enamel. With the help of blue laser light, the sealant is hardened to bond to the tooth's surface. The whole procedure can be accomplished in a few minutes. There is no aftercare involved after the sealant application. The child can go back to their daily routine immediately. 

What is the life span of a Dental Sealant?

A dental sealant can protect your child's teeth for a minimum of 3-5 years or even more if they are maintained well. During your child's regular examinations, the dentist will inspect the sealants to ensure that they are still embedded in their place and haven't cracked or worn away. In case of damage, then they can be easily repaired.  

Call us at We C Kids Dental, Kids Dentist or schedule an online appointment to know more about Sealants.