- We’re sorry, but this office does not accept Medi-Cal, Denti-Cal, or HMO (562) 373-0026
- 532 Redondo Ave
- Long Beach, CA 90814
- Hablamos Español
Cavities are one of the most common dental concerns for children, and they can develop faster than many parents realize. Even with good brushing and flossing habits, kids often struggle to reach the back molars where food particles and bacteria hide. At Dentist of Long Beach, we offer a preventive treatment called dental sealants that helps protect children’s teeth and reduce the risk of cavities.
Sealants are a safe, simple, and effective way to give kids an extra layer of defense against tooth decay—especially during the cavity-prone years.
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made of plastic resin that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—typically the premolars and molars. These teeth naturally have grooves and pits that can trap food and bacteria, making them difficult to clean thoroughly.
The sealant material flows into these grooves, creating a smooth surface that makes it harder for plaque to build up. While brushing and flossing remain essential, sealants add an extra layer of protection that reduces the risk of cavities significantly.
Dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teens, but people of all ages can benefit from them. The ideal time to apply sealants is shortly after a child’s permanent molars come in—typically around ages 6 and 12. Applying sealants early helps protect these teeth during the years they’re most vulnerable to decay.
Children with deep grooves in their molars or a history of cavities are especially good candidates, as are those who may struggle with brushing effectively. However, adults without fillings or decay in their back teeth may also benefit from sealants to prevent future problems. If you or your child are prone to cavities, your dentist may suggest sealants as an easy and proactive way to strengthen your oral health routine.
Sealants are most commonly recommended for children because their newly erupted permanent molars are especially vulnerable to decay. The American Dental Association notes that sealants can reduce the risk of cavities in molars by up to 80 percent.
Here’s why they’re a smart choice for kids:
Parents are often relieved to learn just how quick and easy it is for kids to get sealants. The process typically takes only a few minutes per tooth and involves no discomfort. Here’s what happens during a sealant appointment at Dentist of Long Beach:
Most kids can return to school or activities right after the appointment—there’s no downtime or restrictions.
Absolutely. Dental sealants have been used safely and effectively for decades, and they are recommended by leading health authorities including the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In fact, the CDC reports that children without sealants have almost three times more cavities than those with them. Sealants are considered one of the most effective and affordable tools for cavity prevention in children—especially on the chewing surfaces of the molars, where decay is most likely to occur.
Some parents are understandably curious about what sealants are made of and whether there are any risks involved. Sealants are made from a safe, medical-grade resin material that’s applied only to the surface of the tooth—not absorbed into the body. This resin forms a thin, protective barrier that prevents food, bacteria, and acids from settling into the deep grooves of your child’s teeth. The application is quick and painless, with no drilling or anesthesia needed. Once hardened, the sealant becomes virtually unnoticeable—kids typically can’t feel it, and it won’t change the way their teeth look or function. For many families, sealants offer peace of mind and a smart step toward long-term oral health.
Sealants can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years, depending on wear and tear. While they’re durable, they aren’t permanent. Regular dental visits allow the dentist to check the condition of the sealants and reapply them if needed.
It’s also important to note that sealants don’t replace good oral hygiene. Children should continue to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and maintain a balanced diet to keep their teeth strong.
One of the biggest advantages of sealants is that they help avoid cavities—and the treatment that follows. While filling a cavity requires drilling and restoration, applying a sealant is simple, painless, and preventive.
In many cases, sealants are also more affordable than the cost of treating decay later on. By investing in prevention, parents can save their children from discomfort and reduce future dental expenses.
Sealants are just one piece of the puzzle. To give your child the best chance at a cavity-free smile, combine sealants with other preventive measures:
Dental sealants are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your child’s teeth from cavities during the crucial years of growth and development. At Dentist of Long Beach, we’re committed to helping families keep their children’s smiles healthy, strong, and bright.
Most children can use extra protection against cavities. Schedule an appointment with Dentist of Long Beach today to get started! Our friendly team will answer your questions, explain the process, and provide personalized care to give your child a healthier, happier smile.
We’re sorry, but this office does not accept Medical, Dentical, or HMO
CALL (562) 373-0026
OR
REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT NOW!
