Protecting Young Smiles with Dental Sealants in Fairhaven
Cavities are one of the most common dental issues affecting children. Despite good brushing and flossing habits, the deep grooves on the chewing surfaces of molars can be difficult to clean thoroughly. That’s where dental sealants come in.
At Smiley Dental of Fairhaven, we recommend dental sealants as a safe, simple, and highly effective way to protect your child’s teeth from decay. This preventive treatment creates a protective barrier that blocks out food particles and bacteria, helping to reduce the risk of cavities during the most cavity-prone years.
In this blog, we’ll explain how sealants work, who should get them, how long they last, and why they’re a great investment in your child’s oral health.
📞 Call (508) 967-1000 to Schedule a Sealant Appointment for Your Child in Fairhaven!
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth—usually the molars and premolars. These areas have natural pits and grooves where food and bacteria can easily become trapped.
The sealant material flows into these grooves and hardens, creating a smooth, protective surface that is easier to clean and resistant to decay.
Sealants are typically applied to permanent molars shortly after they erupt, around ages 6 and 12, but they can also be used on baby teeth or on adults at higher risk for cavities.
How Are Sealants Applied?
Applying dental sealants is a quick, painless, and non-invasive procedure that takes just a few minutes per tooth. Here’s what your child can expect during their appointment:
- Cleaning the Tooth – The dentist or hygienist thoroughly cleans the tooth to remove any food or plaque.
- Drying and Preparing the Surface – A special gel is applied to help the sealant bond to the tooth.
- Rinsing and Drying – The gel is rinsed off, and the tooth is dried again.
- Applying the Sealant – The liquid sealant is painted onto the tooth surface and allowed to flow into the grooves.
- Curing the Sealant – A curing light is used to harden the material in seconds.
The process is completely painless and does not require numbing or drilling.
Why Kids in Fairhaven Benefit from Dental Sealants
Children are especially prone to cavities due to a combination of factors, including:
- Incomplete brushing and flossing technique
- Frequent snacking and sugary drinks
- Deep grooves in molars that trap plaque and bacteria
Sealants act as an extra layer of protection, reducing the risk of cavities by up to 80% in the first few years after application.
According to the CDC, children without sealants have nearly three times more first molar cavities than those with sealants. Applying sealants as soon as molars erupt provides maximum protection during the early, high-risk years.
Can Adults Get Sealants Too?
While dental sealants are most commonly used in children, adults who have deep grooves or a history of cavities may also benefit. Sealants can be applied to healthy, decay-free molars to prevent future issues, especially in patients with:
- Deep or narrow fissures in the enamel
- A history of frequent cavities
- Orthodontic appliances that make brushing more difficult
- Dry mouth or other conditions that increase cavity risk
If you’re unsure whether sealants are right for you or your child, the team at Smiley Dental of Fairhaven can assess your oral health and make a personalized recommendation.
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Dental sealants can last 5 to 10 years with proper care, but they are not permanent. Over time, normal chewing can wear them down or cause them to chip.
During your child’s regular dental checkups, we will:
- Check the condition of their sealants
- Reapply them as needed to ensure continued protection
- Offer touch-ups if any part of the sealant is missing
Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding habits like chewing on ice or hard candy will help sealants last longer.
Are Dental Sealants Safe?
Yes—sealants are safe and effective, with decades of use and research supporting their safety for children and adults. Some parents express concerns about BPA in plastics, but the amount of BPA found in dental sealants is extremely low—far below safety limits and less than what you’d be exposed to by touching a receipt or eating certain foods.
The benefits of sealants far outweigh any potential risks, especially considering their ability to prevent cavities and the need for future dental work.
Cost of Dental Sealants in Fairhaven
Dental sealants are a cost-effective investment in your child’s oral health. Preventing a cavity with a sealant is much more affordable than paying for a filling, root canal, or crown later.
Most dental insurance plans cover sealants for children, especially on permanent molars. If you’re unsure about your coverage, our friendly team at Smiley Dental of Fairhaven will be happy to verify your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs.
We also offer flexible payment options and savings plans for families without insurance.
Tips for Cavity Prevention with and Without Sealants
While sealants offer great protection, they should always be combined with strong oral hygiene habits, including:
- Brushing teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing once a day to clean between teeth
- Limiting sugary snacks and beverages
- Drinking fluoridated water
- Visiting the dentist every 6 months for cleanings and exams
These habits, along with dental sealants, create a powerful combination to keep your child’s smile healthy and cavity-free.
Why Choose Smiley Dental of Fairhaven for Sealants
At Smiley Dental of Fairhaven, we specialize in family and pediatric dentistry, offering comprehensive preventive care for children and teens.
When you choose us for your child’s dental care, you can expect:
- A gentle and caring approach to dental sealants and cleanings
- A kid-friendly environment to make appointments stress-free
- Highly trained dentists who use the latest techniques and materials
- Clear communication and education for parents and caregivers
Our mission is to prevent problems before they start and give your child the healthiest smile possible.
Final Thoughts
Dental sealants are a simple and effective way to protect your child’s teeth from cavities. This quick, painless procedure can offer years of protection and save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Whether your child has just gotten their first molars or you’re considering sealants for yourself, Smiley Dental of Fairhaven is here to help.
📞 Call (508) 967-1000 now to book a visit and learn more about cavity prevention through dental sealants.
