Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are very common. If Dr. Shafiei determines your child is a candidate for sealants, they will have a coating painted onto the biting surface of the tooth. This method is highly effective in preventing decay on the tooth’s surface. The seal acts as a barrier for the deeper groves and protects the enamel from plaque buildup.Â
Easy to apply, sealants take only a few minutes to place. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and can last several years before a reapplication is needed.
Fluoride Treatment
Another common preventative treatment is fluoride treatment. Fluoride treatments help the teeth regain lost minerals and make them more resistant to acid. These treatments are quick and easy, often taking a few minutes at the end of a regular cleaning or checkup.Â
Are Dental Sealants Safe for Children in San Diego?
Yes, dental sealants are safe and highly recommended for many children, especially those at higher risk for cavities. In fact, sealants are one of the most effective preventive treatments offered by pediatric dentists in San Diego.
Sealants are made from tooth-colored materials that bond securely to the chewing surfaces of molars. They act as a protective shield against plaque and bacteria that collect in deep grooves. These materials are approved for pediatric use and have been safely used in dentistry for decades.
If you have questions about how sealants work or whether your child is a candidate, our San Diego pediatric dental team is always happy to guide you.
How Do I Know If My Child Needs Fluoride Treatments?
Fluoride needs vary from child to child. Factors such as diet, brushing habits, and local water fluoridation can influence whether professional fluoride treatments are beneficial.
Many families in San Diego rely on filtered or bottled water, which may reduce fluoride exposure. During your child’s visit, we evaluate their cavity risk and enamel strength to determine if additional fluoride protection would be helpful.
Our goal is personalized preventive care, recommending fluoride treatments only when they truly benefit your child’s smile.
What Other Preventive Options Help Protect My Child’s Smile?
At SmileArc Pediatric Dentistry, prevention goes beyond sealants and fluoride. As a trusted pediatric dentist in San Diego, we focus on early education and proactive care to keep smiles healthy as children grow.
Additional preventive support may include:
- Guidance on cavity-friendly nutrition
- Coaching on age-appropriate brushing and flossing techniques
- Monitoring bite and jaw development
- Early detection technology for small problem areas
By combining professional preventive treatments with education and routine checkups, we help San Diego families reduce the risk of cavities and avoid more complex dental treatment in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Preventive dental care plays a big role in keeping your child’s smile healthy and cavity-free. Below are answers to common questions families in San Diego ask about sealants, fluoride treatments, and protecting growing smiles.
At what age should children get dental sealants?
Most children benefit from sealants when their first permanent molars come in, usually around ages 6 to 7. Some children may also benefit when their second molars erupt around ages 11 to 13. During routine visits, we monitor tooth development to determine the ideal timing.
Are sealants covered by dental insurance in San Diego?
Many PPO dental insurance plans cover sealants for children, especially on permanent molars. Coverage varies by provider and age limits, so our team is happy to help verify your benefits before treatment.
Is fluoride treatment necessary if my child brushes with fluoride toothpaste?
Fluoride toothpaste is an excellent daily defense, but professional fluoride treatments provide a stronger, concentrated boost of protection. For children at moderate to high risk for cavities, professional fluoride can add an extra layer of enamel support.
How long should my child wait to eat after a fluoride treatment?
After most fluoride treatments, we recommend waiting about 30 minutes before eating or drinking. This allows the fluoride to fully absorb and strengthen the enamel.
Do sealants or fluoride treatments replace brushing and flossing?
No. Preventive treatments support oral health, but they do not replace daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. Think of them as added protection, like a raincoat for your child’s teeth, while healthy habits remain the foundation.
