Pediatric Sealants in Walnut Creek to Protect Young Teeth
When it comes to preventive care for your child’s teeth, extra protection is vital for their adult smile. While routine dental cleanings, exams, and education can go a long way, there are other treatments that can benefit your child’s oral health. At Shadelands Pediatric Dentistry, we provide pediatric sealants designed to protect your child’s teeth from cavities.
Tooth decay and cavities are some of the most common concerns in toddlers and children. Our pediatric dentist, Dr. Melissa Lopez, and her associate, Dr. Judyth Lee, know how these issues can disrupt proper dental development and impact long-term oral health. For this reason and many others, we provide pediatric sealants as a safe and effective way to minimize the chance of decay with this simple treatment.
Our team proudly serves young smiles across Walnut Creek. Contact Shadelands Pediatric Dentistry to schedule an appointment for your child today!
CALL US: (925) 930-9390 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
What are Pediatric Sealants & How Do They Work?
Sealants are a preventive dental treatment. They consist of body-safe, plastic resin coatings which are painted directly onto natural tooth enamel. Pediatric sealants are specially designed for children and are typically applied on premolars and molars to protect against decay-causing bacteria. The coating bonds well into the grooves of each tooth, covering the surfaces and preserving internal structures.
Why Apply Sealants to Children’s Molars?
Your child is still learning how to care for their teeth properly and missing some spots while brushing and flossing is typical. Their teeth are not as strong as adult teeth, making them more vulnerable to cavities. When plaque and food debris are left on teeth, they create bacteria that can eat away at enamel and cause decay.
Dental sealants are a simple yet effective way to keep your child’s teeth resistant to cavities so their smile remains healthier for longer. Once applied, these coatings make it difficult for debris and bacteria to stick to the grooves and pits of teeth. This allows simple brushing and flossing to be more effective.
7 Benefits of Pediatric Sealants
Dental sealants can provide many benefits. Seven of the most common include:
- Preservation of tooth surfaces, pits, and grooves
- Easy to apply and quick drying
- Immediate protection of teeth after treatment
- Durable and can withstand the forces of daily chewing
- More affordable, proactive treatment
- White or clear in color, making for discreet results
- Safe materials that make irritation or allergic reactions rare
When Should My Child Get Dental Sealants?
Our pediatric dentist may recommend that your child receives sealant treatment for their first molars around ages five to seven. Applying coatings to the back teeth can help prevent tooth decay from the beginning. Although baby teeth do fall out eventually, it is vital to protect your child’s smile early on and prevent problems that can cause serious dental health concerns later in life.
Dr. Lopez may also recommend additional treatment when adult molars erupt. These permanent back teeth usually emerge between the ages of ten to fourteen.
How Are Pediatric Sealants Applied?
Application is straightforward and virtually pain-free. Before our pediatric dentist in Walnut Creek begins treatment, she makes sure your child is comfortable and relaxed in the dental chair. Since there is no need for numbing or drilling, you and your child can typically expect a quick and easy procedure. What you can expect from a sealant procedure includes:
- We thoroughly clean the teeth in need of sealing.
- Our team dries the teeth, making sure they are isolated from the tongue, cheeks, and saliva.
- We may apply a disinfectant solution to the teeth’s surfaces to prep for treatment.
- We will rinse off the solution and dry teeth once more.
- Dr. Lopez or Dr. Lee will gently paint on a thin bonding liquid.
- Our pediatric dentist applies the sealants directly onto each tooth, coating the enamel.
- She uses a special curing light to harden the sealant, allowing for quick application.
- Once hardened, treatment is complete.
There are no restrictions following treatment. Your child can drink and eat right away and can even return to school on the same day!
How Long Will My Child’s Dental Sealants Last?
These dental coatings are designed to protect young teeth for a minimum of three to five years. However, with a good diet, proper oral hygiene, and regular care, sealants may last for up to ten years. If they become worn or damaged, our pediatric dentist can repair them quickly.
Will Insurance Cover Treatment?
Most dental insurances do cover sealants because they consider them to be a preventive treatment. It is best to check with your provider to ensure coverage. We encourage you to contact our friendly and knowledgeable staff. They will be happy to answer your questions and address your concerns.
Safeguard Your Child’s Smile Today!
At Shadelands Pediatric Dentistry, we do all we can to protect your child’s teeth and dental development. Our pediatric sealant treatments are uniquely designed for primary and newly emerged adult molars. Dr. Melissa Lopez and Dr. Judyth Lee deliver care with skill, compassion, and a dedication to preserving long-term oral health. Contact our office to learn more about pediatric sealants in Walnut Creek today!
CALL US: (925) 930-9390 REQUEST APPOINTMENT