Dental Sealants

Think of sealants as raincoats for teeth. We apply a thin, plastic coating to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, filling in those deep grooves where toothbrush bristles can’t always reach. Once hardened, this protective shield blocks out food and bacteria that would otherwise settle into these crevices and cause decay.

The material bonds directly to the tooth surface, creating a barrier lasting several years with proper care. Kids can eat, chew, and go about their normal routines immediately after application—no special precautions needed.

Who Benefits from Dental Sealants in Cary?

Children and teenagers gain the most from sealants, particularly once their permanent molars come in. The first set typically emerges around age six, while the second set appears around age twelve. These early years after eruption represent the highest risk period for decay, making timely sealant application especially valuable.

We often recommend sealants for:

• Children with their first or second permanent molars
• Teens who struggle with thorough brushing techniques
• Kids with deep grooves in their teeth that trap food easily
• Young patients with a history of cavities in baby teeth

Even some baby teeth might benefit from sealants if they have particularly deep grooves and your child tends toward cavities. Our team evaluates each child individually to determine the best protective strategy.

The Sealant Application Process

Getting dental sealants for Cary kids actually enjoys takes about 15 minutes per tooth. Dr. Brooks and Dr. Chandak make the experience completely comfortable and straightforward.

First, we thoroughly clean and dry each tooth. Then, we apply a special solution that slightly roughens the tooth surface—this helps the sealant bond properly. After rinsing and drying again, we paint the sealant material onto the grooves of each tooth. A bright curing light hardens the material in seconds, and that’s it. No numbing, no drilling, no discomfort.

Children can return to school immediately and eat their regular lunch. The sealants feel smooth to the tongue; most kids forget they’re even there within hours.

Why Sealants Matter for Long-Term Oral Health

Cavities remain one of the most common chronic conditions affecting children. They cause pain, lead to missed school days, and sometimes require extensive treatment. Sealants prevent up to 80% of cavities in the back teeth during the first two years after application, and they continue offering protection for many years beyond that.

This preventive approach saves families time, money, and stress—especially during adolescence when academic pressures and social activities can make dental problems particularly inconvenient. Protecting permanent teeth early means your child maintains a healthy foundation that lasts into adulthood.

Combined with proper brushing, regular flossing, and preventative dentistry checkups, sealants create a comprehensive defense system against decay. They work alongside fluoride treatments and professional cleanings to keep teeth strong and cavity-free.

Sealants for Special Needs Patients

We welcome children of all abilities to our practice. Sealants offer particular benefits for patients with special needs since they reduce the need for more complex treatments later. Parents can accompany their children into the treatment room, providing comfort and familiarity throughout the quick procedure.

Dr. Chandak and Dr. Brooks adjust their approach based on each child’s unique needs, working at whatever pace feels comfortable. Many families find that the simplicity of sealant application makes it an ideal first step in establishing positive dental experiences.

Maintaining Your Child’s Dental Sealants in Cary

Sealants typically last five to ten years, though we check them on every routine visit. Sometimes they need small touch-ups if normal chewing wears down a section. Regular pediatric dentistry appointments ensure sealants stay intact and continue protecting teeth effectively.

Your child should continue brushing twice daily and flossing regularly. While sealants protect the chewing surfaces, cavities can still develop between teeth or along the gumline without proper home care. Think of sealants as one important piece of a complete oral health puzzle.

Schedule Your Sealant Appointment Today

Ready to give your child’s smile extra protection? Preston Corners Pediatric Dentistry makes getting dental sealants Cary families count on easy and stress-free. Whether your child’s six-year molars just came in or you want to protect your teenager’s teeth during these critical years, we’re here to help.

Request an appointment online or call our office to discuss whether sealants make sense for your child. Dr. Brooks, Dr. Chandak, and our caring team look forward to keeping your child’s smile healthy and bright for years.