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FAQs about Dental Sealants

FAQs about Dental Sealants

Did you know there is a very effective weapon against tooth decay in addition to brushing and flossing? It’s called dental sealants, and it is one of the most popular preventive dental services available for children. Dr. Hassan M. Alamzad at Queens Professional Dental Care in Jackson Heights, NY, offers a full range of family dental services, including dental sealants to help your child’s smile.

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about dental sealants:

What are dental sealants?

A dental sealant is a hard coating which seals up the deep grooves and crevices that are part of normal tooth anatomy. These deep grooves and crevices are where bacteria and food debris can hide. Brushing and flossing don’t often thoroughly clean these areas, so the deep grooves and crevices are where tooth decay often begins.

Do dental sealants hurt?

No, dental sealants from your family dentist are completely painless, and your child will not need any anesthetic for dental sealant treatment.

How long do dental sealants take?

Each tooth takes only a few minutes, so your child can have all permanent molars sealed in just one appointment.

When should my child have dental sealants?

The first permanent molars should be sealed when your child is between the ages of 5 and 7. The second permanent molars should be sealed when your child is between the ages of 11 and 14.

What is the dental sealant procedure like?

A gentle etching material is applied to the deep grooves and crevices on your child’s teeth. This material creates tiny microscopic openings to hold the sealant in place. The etching material is rinsed off, and the teeth are dried. The liquid sealant material is applied into the grooves and crevices, and hardened with an ultraviolet light. The result is a hard, clear coating which seals up the deep tooth anatomy, so bacteria and food debris simply slide off of the tooth surface.

You want to protect your child’s smile, so dental sealants are a great way to guard against tooth decay. To find out more about dental sealants, call Dr. Hassan M. Alamzad at Queens Professional Dental Care in Jackson Heights, NY, today!