Dental Sealants for Cavity Prevention

Airway Evaluation for Better Sleep & Health in Hawthorne, California

Child sleeping peacefully with teddy bear

At Hawthorne Children’s Dental, we know that brushing and flossing are the first line of defense against cavities. But sometimes, a toothbrush just can’t reach every nook and cranny. That is where dental sealants come in.

We offer dental sealants in Hawthorne, CA, as a simple, proactive way to give your child’s smile an extra layer of protection. Think of them as a safety shield for teeth, blocking out the food and germs that cause decay.

xray scan of childs airway

What are Dental Sealants?

The back teeth (molars and premolars) are rough and uneven. They have deep pits and grooves that are perfect for chewing food, but they are also perfect hiding spots for bacteria. Even with great brushing habits, bristles often cannot reach deep inside these tiny crevices.

A dental sealant is a thin, protective coating made from a safe, plastic-like material. It is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, effectively “sealing off” these grooves. This creates a smooth surface that is easier to clean and impossible for cavity-causing bacteria to penetrate.

Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children

Dental sealants are one of the most effective preventive treatments available in pediatric dentistry.

  1. Powerful Protection: According to the CDC, sealants protect against 80% of cavities for two years and continue to protect against 50% of cavities for up to four years.

  2. Painless Application: There are no drills or shots involved. The process is quick, easy, and completely comfortable for your child.

  3. Cost-Effective: Preventing a cavity is always better (and less expensive) than treating one with a filling later on.

  4. Long-Lasting: Sealants can protect your child’s teeth for several years, covering the most cavity-prone years of childhood.

Our Dental Sealant Process

Applying sealants is a fast and simple procedure that takes just a few minutes per tooth. Here is what your child can expect during their visit:

  1. Cleaning: We thoroughly clean and dry the tooth to ensure the sealant bonds properly.

  2. Preparation: A special gel is applied to the chewing surface to roughen it slightly, which helps the sealant stick.

  3. Application: We paint the liquid sealant material onto the tooth, where it flows into the deep grooves.

  4. Hardening: We use a special curing light to harden the sealant in seconds.

Once the sealant is set, your child can eat and drink immediately. It’s that easy!

We are committed to keeping your child’s smile cavity-free. Let us help you protect those hard-to-reach spots with this simple, effective treatment.

[Book An Appointment] or call our office at 424-484-9812 to schedule a visit today.

What our patients are saying

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to apply sealants is as soon as the permanent molars appear. The first permanent molars usually come in around age 6, and the second set around age 12. sealing them early protects them from the start.

Yes, dental sealants are extremely safe. The materials used are bio-compatible and have been used in dentistry for decades. We are happy to discuss the specific materials we use if you have any questions.

Sealants can last for many years, often up to a decade. However, they can wear down over time due to chewing. We will check the condition of the sealants during your child’s regular check-ups and can reapply them if necessary.