Sealants

Dental sealants are an important part of maintaining your child’s oral health and smile. Sealants prevent food and plaque buildup from gathering in hard-to-reach places. Food particles, germs, and plaque have a hard time collecting on smooth surfaces, such as the front teeth, but even children who brush and floss diligently can’t always clean the deep bumps and grooves of the back molars.

We offer sealants at our office to protect your child’s back teeth, which are most likely to develop cavities, from decay. Sealants are highly recommended for permanent molars soon after complete eruption, and we offer dental sealants at our office in Amarillo, TX. During your first visit to our office, we may take dental X-rays to get a clearer picture of your child’s facial structures.

What Are Dental Sealants, and How Are They Applied?

Dental sealants are a thin coating of white resin that cover the top of the molars to protect them from decay. Applying sealants only takes a few minutes. First, the tooth is cleaned thoroughly. Then it is conditioned and dried to prepare for the sealant. The sealant material will be used to fill any deep grooves and cover the top surface of the molars. After applying the material, your dentist will use a small light to harden the sealant. Once the process is complete, your child will be able to eat and drink right away.

Do Sealants Require Special Care?

Sealants do not require special care. Sealants can crack when a child bites hard objects, but your pediatric dentist can check the sealants and recommend repairs during your next routine visit. With proper oral hygiene habits (brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist once every 6 months), the sealants can protect your child’s teeth for many years.