As a parent, you do everything you can to protect your child from pain and keep them healthy. But did you know that more than 40% of children have had tooth decay by age 11?
That’s where Dr. Dan Moheban and the experienced team at Children’s Dental Specialties can help. Dr. Moheban is a board-certified pediatric dentist with advanced training in cavity prevention.
Sealants are a pediatric dental service that prevents tooth decay and gives your child’s oral health an extra boost. Dr. Daniel Moheban can provide this quick and preventive treatment after your child’s routine dental cleaning.
What are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a clear, plastic-like coating we paint on the chewing surfaces of your child’s back teeth. Sealants add an extra layer of protection that keeps cavities at bay.
The back teeth (molars and premolars) have natural grooves and pits where food and bacteria can easily get trapped. These teeth are hard to reach even with regular brushing and flossing. Sealants fill in those grooves, keeping food and bacteria out.
Children who get dental sealants have a much lower risk of cavities. Sealants can prevent the need for fillings, crowns, or root canals later in life.
What’s the Best Age for Dental Sealants?
We recommend dental sealants when your child’s permanent molars and premolars first come in. This usually happens between the ages of 6 and 12.
The first set of permanent molars typically erupts around age 6. The second set comes in around age 12. By sealing these teeth early, we can give them extra protection during the years when your child is most likely to get cavities.
If your child is at a high risk of cavities, we may also recommend sealants on their baby teeth.
The Top Benefits of Getting Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a simple way to protect your child’s teeth. Here are some of the top benefits:
- Long-Lasting Protection: Dental sealants can last 5 or more years with proper care. They are designed to be strong and withstand the pressure of chewing.
- Quick and Painless: The treatment takes just a few minutes. It is painless, non-invasive, and doesn’t require any drilling or shots.
- Affordable Care: Sealants are much less expensive than fillings, crowns, or root canals. They are a smart investment in your child’s oral health.
- Better Oral Health: By blocking out bacteria and food particles, sealants help prevent tooth decay and gum problems. This means fewer cavities and fewer dental visits.
- Peace of Mind: You can worry less knowing your child’s teeth have extra protection against cavities.
Dental sealants create a protective barrier against food particles and harmful bacteria that can break down tooth enamel. Harmful bacteria feed on sugars and starches left in the mouth. Plaque and tartar can build on the back teeth, as they can be harder to clean than other teeth.
Cavities are common among children if they don’t properly care for their teeth and gums. Children also often consume more sugary foods and beverages that can attract harmful bacteria. Addressing signs of tooth decay in children as they grow is key because it can impact the health of their permanent teeth.
Patient Review
Dental Sealant Treatment in Worcester, MA
The process is quick, simple, and painless. Here’s what you can expect:
- Clean the teeth: First, we make sure your child’s teeth are clean and dry. We usually place sealants right after a routine dental cleaning.
- Prepare the tooth surface: We apply a special solution to help the sealant bond to the tooth. This solution is then rinsed off and the tooth is dried.
- Apply the sealant: Then, we paint the clear sealant onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, making sure we cover each groove.
- Harden the sealant: We use a special curing light to harden the sealant in just a few seconds.
Your child can usually eat right away after treatment. The sealants harden quickly, so there’s no need to wait.
Why Parents Trust Dr. Moheban for Sealants
Choosing the right dentist for your child’s sealants is important. Here is what makes Dr. Moheban different:
Board-Certified Expertise
Dr. Moheban is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He has completed advanced training and passed a rigorous exam to demonstrate his expertise. You can trust that your child is in highly skilled hands.
Research Background
Dr. Moheban spent three years conducting research at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. He also studied dental sealants directly at Colgate Oral Pharmaceuticals. He understands the science behind why sealants work.
Focus on Prevention
Dr. Moheban has studied extensively in the area of oral bacterial management and cavity prevention. He doesn’t just place sealants but understands how to keep your child’s entire mouth healthy.
Gentle, Caring Approach
Dr. Moheban is here to help children feel relaxed and calm. He takes time to explain everything and make sure your child feels safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have more questions about preventative care for your child? We’re happy to help. Learn more with answers to these common questions about kids’ dental sealants in Worcester, MA.
How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants typically last 5 or more years. They’re designed to be strong and withstand the pressure of chewing, but can wear down over time if you eat many hard or sticky foods. Dr. Moheban can inspect the condition of your child’s sealants during regular visits. He’ll look for any signs of wear or may reapply sealants if needed.
How do you ensure dental sealants last?
Make sure your child follows these aftercare instructions for sealants:
- Brush and floss twice a day
- Don’t chew on ice, hard foods, or sticky foods
- Limit sugary foods and drinks
- Continue to visit for regular cleanings and X-rays
We’ll examine your child’s molars at regular visits. Our team will ensure your child gets touch-up treatment as needed. We’ll only apply new sealants once your old ones are completely worn.
Are dental sealants safe for children?
Yes. Dental sealants have been thoroughly studied and are considered safe. The materials they are made of have been rigorously tested and meet all safety standards. We highly recommend this treatment for children to help protect their teeth from decay.
Can dental sealants replace fillings?
No. Sealants prevent cavities by covering the grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They help keep food and bacteria out. Fillings repair teeth that have already been damaged by cavities.
We can place sealants on top of fillings to provide extra protection for teeth at risk for future cavities. But sealants aren’t a substitute for fillings.
Do dental sealants hurt?
No, treatment is painless and non-invasive. We don’t need to use an anesthetic or sedation for this treatment, and your child won’t feel pain after we place the sealants. The sealants feel like a smooth coating over the teeth.
When can my child eat after dental sealants?
Your child can usually eat right away after treatment. The sealants harden quickly, so there’s no need to wait long. Still, you want to avoid giving your child sticky or hard foods for the first few hours to make sure everything stays in place.
Will sealants affect my child’s bite?
No. Sealants are a thin layer of plastic applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. They don’t change the shape or position of the teeth.
Your child’s teeth will feel normal, and he or she can bite and chew without any issues. Dr. Moheban will check your child’s bite during regular visits and make adjustments if needed.
Prevent Childhood Cavities in Worcester, MA
Is it time for your child’s next dental cleaning and sealant treatment? Call Children’s Dental Specialties today at (508) 625-5534. You may also schedule a dental appointment online.
Let us know if you have any questions about your child’s sealants or other routine care. We’ll work with you so your child gets the right treatment for their needs and age group.