Do Kids Need Dental Sealants? What Albany Parents Should Know

Busy parents in the Albany, New York area are committed to keeping their kids’ smiles healthy. And dental sealants are a great way to keep their kids’ teeth protected. Making sure they brush and floss is important. But having an extra layer of defense for those areas that are prone to cavities is also helpful. So, do your kids need dental sealants? We’ll share everything Albany families need to know.

What exactly are dental sealants?

Dental sealants protect the molars (and premolars) by shielding the small grooves and crevices from bacteria and food that cause plaque. The sealants keep cavities at bay and your kids’ teeth healthier.

Are dental sealants safe and recommended for my kids?

Dental sealants are very safe for kids and continue to be recommended in the dental industry. The material comprising the sealant is non-toxic and approved by the American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control. The procedure is painless and does not require sedation or numbing.

Cavity prevention for kids in Albany starts with putting a stop to the cause of plaque build-up that leads to cavities. Our Albany pediatric dental team recommends dental sealants for kids starting around the age of 6, after their permanent molars come in. Sometimes, younger children who still have baby teeth are good candidates for sealants because of deep grooves present or a history of cavities.

What can we expect during our visit and dental sealant application?

At DeSanti & Linden Dentistry in Albany, our pediatric team takes special care to make dental sealant visits quick, comfortable, and effective. During your child’s regular appointment, the dentist begins by applying a gentle gel to prepare the tooth for bonding. Next, a thin layer of sealant is carefully painted onto the surface. It’s hardened with a curing light, forming a durable shield against cavities. The process is painless, and your child can eat and drink right away. And while sealants have a life expectancy of five to ten years, your child might need a touch-up during a future dental visit.

Sealants are among the easiest and most effective ways to protect your child’s teeth from cavities. They’re also a great supplement to regular brushing and flossing. Busy Albany families save time when we integrate the procedure into a regular checkup appointment, too. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our pediatric dentists to learn more about sealants for your child. And see why so many families choose DeSanti & Linden Dentistry!