At Fort Myers Dental Arts, we are committed to keeping your child’s smile healthy and bright. One way we can help protect their teeth from decay is by applying dental sealants. Sealants are a simple and effective treatment to safeguard teeth, especially for younger patients. Understanding how sealants work and their benefits will help you make informed decisions about your child’s oral health.

Why Get Sealants?

Dental sealants act as a protective shield for your child’s teeth, particularly on the back molars, where decay is more likely to occur. These teeth can be harder to clean thoroughly, even with regular brushing. Sealants help to prevent decay by creating a smooth surface over the deep grooves in molars, making it harder for food particles and bacteria to get trapped.

Our Dentist in Villas Fort Myers FL often recommends sealants for children and teenagers, but adults can benefit as well. Studies show that sealants can prevent up to 80% of cavities in the first two years after application. Even after four years, they can still reduce cavities by up to 50%. Without sealants, children are more than three times as likely to develop decay.

When Should Your Child Get Sealants?

The first set of molars typically appears around age 6, followed by the second set around age 12. Sealants are most effective when applied as soon as the molars come in, so it’s a good idea to talk to us about protecting your child’s teeth early on. Regular dental exams will help determine the best time to apply sealants, ensuring maximum protection for your child’s smile.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The application of dental sealants is one of the simplest and most comfortable treatments we offer. There is no pain involved, and the procedure is quick. First, we’ll thoroughly clean your child’s teeth, followed by the application of a special gel. After the gel is cleaned off, the sealant is painted onto the tooth and hardened using a small blue light. This process only takes a few minutes per tooth.

Are There Any Concerns with Sealants?

Sealants are a safe and effective way to prevent cavities, with no known side effects. Allergic reactions are rare, but if your child has any specific allergies, be sure to discuss them with our Dentist in Villas Fort Myers FL before the procedure.

Next Steps

Dental sealants can last for several years, but it’s important to maintain regular dental check-ups so we can monitor the condition of the sealants and reapply them if necessary. If your child received sealants in the past and you’re unsure whether they need to be reapplied, schedule an appointment with us.

For more information about dental sealants and other ways to protect your child’s teeth, contact Fort Myers Dental Arts today. Our team is here to support your family’s oral health at every stage!