Sealants

If your child or teenager regularly experiences cavities, consider dental sealants. Sealants can reduce the risk of tooth decay, ensuring your child’s smile stays healthy. At Little Harpeth Children’s Dentistry™, board-certified pediatric dentist Priya Purohit, DDS, MSD, uses BPA-free sealants to protect tooth enamel and prevent cavities. They work best when placed soon after the permanent molar erupts. To make an appointment for your child, please call the office directly to schedule. 

What are sealants?

Sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the tops and sides of your child’s teeth. Once placed, the sealants dry, quickly bonding to the grooves, pits, and indentations of your child’s tooth enamel. 

Sealants form a protective barrier, preventing harmful bacteria, plaque, and food particles from causing damage. Though they won’t last forever, sealants can help your child reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Who should get sealants?

At Little Harpeth Children’s Dentistry™, Dr. Purohit recommends that all children at risk for decay get dental sealants. That’s especially true if your child is 6-12 when cavities are most common. 

After a review of your child’s dental records, an oral exam, and a series of digital X-rays, Dr. Purohit can determine if your child’s a candidate.

What is the process for getting dental sealants?

At Little Harpeth Children’s Dentistry™, getting dental sealants takes a single visit.

First,  each tooth is dried and cotton is placed around them to prevent saliva from building up.

Next, "tooth shampoo" is applied to your child’s teeth. The solution roughens their surfaces, helping the sealant stick. The LHCD Smile Squad rinses your child’s teeth one more time and carefully applies the sealants with a paintbrush.

After applying the sealants, a "tooth dryer" points a special light at your child’s teeth. The light causes the sealants to cure and dry.

How long do sealants last?

Dental sealants last as long as you take care of them*, but they’re susceptible to wear-and-tear damage. As a result, your child must practice good oral hygiene. Dr. Purohit recommends that children with sealants:

• Brush their teeth twice daily
• Floss regularly
• Visit Little Harpeth Children’s Dentistry™ every six months for professional teeth cleaning
• Wear mouth guards when playing sports to prevent damage
• Do not chew gum, ice, or other sticky foods that may pull them off

Every time your child visits the office for a checkup, Dr. Purohit examines their sealants for chipping or cracking. If necessary, she can reapply them to prevent further damage.

To see if your child is a candidate for dental sealants, make an appointment at Little Harpeth Children’s Dentistry™ by calling the office today.

*Individual results may vary.