Pediatric Dental Sealants in Edinburg, TX

Our mission at GigglesVille Pediatric Dentistry is turning the boring and sometimes scary task of visiting the dentist into a fun adventure! Our brightly decorated office is a safe and inviting space for young patients, where they can comfortably relax and allow us to build strong foundations for a lifetime of good oral health. A cornerstone of healthy teeth lies in cavity prevention which is why our pediatric dentist in Edinburg, TX, recommends dental sealants to patients susceptible to tooth decay. Let’s dive in to what that means for your child.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants for kids are a preventive dental treatment where a thin, plastic coating is applied to the chewing surface of molars, premolars, and any deep grooves or pits in teeth. This coating acts as a protective shield over the tooth enamel, effectively sealing it off from harmful bacteria and food particles that can lead to cavities. It’s especially useful in those hard-to-reach areas where toothbrush bristles might not reach, giving an added defense against tooth decay.

Why Use Dental Sealants For Kids? 

It is only natural to wonder whether dental sealants are necessary for your child. After all, no parent wants to put their child through any necessary dental procedures. Our pediatric dentist in Edinburg, TX, Dr. Vargas is very much on the same page. However, it’s important to understand that our young patients are much more prone to cavities than we are as adults. Here’s why:

• Baby Teeth and Young Permanent Teeth: Their enamel is softer and more vulnerable to acid attacks.
• Brushing Challenges: Those tricky nooks and crannies on the molars can sometimes evade even the most meticulous of tooth-brushers.
• Sweet Delights: Let’s face it – little ones love their treats, and these sugary snacks can create a paradise for pesky cavity-causing bacteria.

Dr. Lopez and Dr. Vargas believe in the magic of prevention. By opting for dental sealants, you’re giving your child’s teeth an extra layer of protection from the pesky cavities which could cause bigger problems down the line.

Benefits of Dental Sealants

• Mighty Shields: They provide a strong barrier against food and bacteria.
• Reduction in Cavities: Studies have shown that sealants can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in molars.
• Peace of Mind: Relax knowing your child’s teeth have an added line of defense.
• Cost-effective: They can help avoid expensive treatments down the line such as extractions, root canals, and crowns.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

The good news is that while they may sound like a temporary solution, dental sealants for kids are designed to last. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, sealants can protect teeth for up to 10 years! Our friendly duo, Dr. Lopez and Dr. Vargas, will keep an eye on them during regular visits, ensuring they remain strong and intact.

How Our Pediatric Dentist Applies The Sealants

1. Tooth Preparation: The targeted teeth are first cleaned thoroughly. This ensures that no debris or plaque remains on the surface. The teeth are then dried, and an absorbent material (like cotton) may be placed around the tooth to keep it dry during the procedure.
2. Etching: An etching solution is applied to the tooth’s chewing surface. This roughens the tooth slightly, creating a more suitable surface for the dental sealant to adhere to. After a short period, the etching solution is rinsed off.
3. Applying the Sealant: The teeth are dried again, ensuring the surface is entirely moisture-free. The sealant material, which is typically a liquid, is then painted onto the tooth enamel. It flows into the deep grooves and pits of the chewing surfaces.
4. Curing the Sealant: Once the sealant has been applied, a special curing light is used to harden it. This step bonds the sealant to the tooth and ensures it’s firmly in place. The light is typically blue and doesn’t generate heat. The curing process only takes a few minutes.
5. Final Check: After the sealant has hardened, the Edinburg pediatric dentist or dental assistant will check to ensure the sealant is in the correct position and doesn’t interfere with the patient’s bite. Necessary adjustments are made at this stage.

The entire procedure is pain-free and doesn’t require any drilling or removal of the tooth structure. It provides a protective barrier that can significantly reduce the chances of cavities developing in the sealed areas. Regular dental check-ups will monitor the sealants to ensure they remain intact and effective.

Common Questions & Concerns

Are Dental Sealants Safe?

Absolutely! Dental sealants are extremely safe – we would never offer them to our young patients if we had any safety concerns. They’ve been used and studied for several decades and have been proven to be a highly effective and safe way to help prevent cavities.

Do they replace fluoride?

No, dental sealants and fluoride serve distinct but complementary purposes. While dental sealants physically cover and protect the surfaces of teeth to prevent decay, fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria in the mouth. Using fluoride toothpaste and getting regular fluoride treatments in combination with dental sealants can provide more comprehensive protection against cavities.

Are they visible?

Dental sealants are typically made of a clear or tooth-colored material, making them discreet when applied to teeth. They’re designed to blend in with the natural appearance of your teeth, ensuring that they aren’t noticeable when you talk or smile. Over time, depending on the type of sealant and one’s dietary habits, there might be slight discoloration, but it’s generally minimal.

Can adults get sealants?

Yes, adults can benefit from dental sealants as well. Although sealants are most commonly applied to children’s permanent molars as soon as they come in, adults without fillings or decay in their molars can also be good candidates for sealants. It’s a myth that only children can benefit. The same protective qualities that make sealants valuable for children’s teeth are applicable to adult teeth.

Guard Your Child’s Smile With Dental Sealants in Edinburg, TX

Give your child’s smile the magical gift of protection. Schedule an appointment with our pediatric dentists, Dr. Lopez or Dr. Vargas, and experience the cavity-fighting powers of dental sealants in Edinburg, TX. Trust us, in the GigglesVille Pediatric Dentistry kingdom, every visit is an adventure and every smile is a treasure – we can’t wait to have your child join in on the fun!