Cavities are one of the most common dental issues children face. They’re small at first—easy to miss, easy to ignore. But left alone, they grow into something more serious, often faster than expected. That’s what makes prevention so valuable. At Weideman Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, one of the ways we help families lower the risk of tooth decay is through dental sealants for kids. If your child is around 6-11 years old and you’re thinking of asking us, “Does my child need dental sealants?” you’re in the right place to learn more.
What Are Cavities?
Cavities are a type of tooth decay caused by harmful bacteria. These bacteria feed on sugars left behind after eating or drinking, then produce acids that wear away the outer layer of the tooth, called enamel. Over time, the damage forms a soft spot or hole in the tooth’s surface.
Because kids tend to eat frequently throughout the day and are still developing their brushing habits, their teeth are at a higher risk. The back teeth, or molars, are especially vulnerable because their deep grooves make them harder to keep clean. Without preventive care, cavities can form quickly and may go unnoticed until they become painful.
Why Cavities Are Dangerous
Cavities are not only uncomfortable, but they can lead to more serious problems when left untreated. Decay can penetrate into the deeper layers of the tooth, which may cause pain, infection, or the need for procedures like fillings, crowns, or extractions. In young children, untreated cavities can interfere with eating, sleeping, concentration, and even speaking. When kids can’t chew properly or feel anxious about their smile, it may also affect their confidence and communication.
Even though baby teeth are meant to fall out, cavities are no less serious if they occur in them. These teeth play a role in holding space for permanent teeth, and decay can affect how those adult teeth come in. Preventing cavities early helps protect your child’s long-term oral health and sets the foundation for healthy habits.
Concerned your child has a cavity that needs to be treated? Call us today for a pediatric examination.
Why Brushing Alone Isn’t Always Enough
Brushing is one of the most important habits for protecting your child’s teeth, but it’s not the only thing your child needs. Molars, in particular, have natural grooves and pits where food and bacteria can hide. These areas are tough for kids to properly clean, even with careful brushing. And while fluoride from Weideman Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics strengthens enamel, it doesn’t protect those deep grooves from buildup. This is where additional protection can make a difference.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a simple, preventive solution for protecting back teeth. These thin, protective coatings are painted onto the chewing surfaces of molars. Once applied, they act like a shield, blocking out food and bacteria from the areas most prone to decay.
Sealants are:
- Quick & painless to apply
- Invisible or tooth-colored
- Hardened with a special light in seconds
- Effective at reducing the risk of cavities
Organizations like the CDC and American Dental Association strongly recommend sealants, especially for school-aged children. Studies show they can prevent up to 80% of cavities in the molars. They don’t replace brushing or flossing, but they do add an additional safeguard against cavities during the years when kids are still learning good oral hygiene habits.
Is Your Child a Good Candidate for Dental Sealants?
Your child might benefit from sealants if they:
- Have recently had their first or second set of molars come in (usually around ages 6 and 12)
- Have had cavities in the past
- Eat snacks frequently or enjoy sugary drinks
- Are still working on consistent brushing & flossing habits
- Have deep grooves in their back teeth
Most children will be eligible for sealants, but it’s best to visit board-certified pediatric dentists Dr. Cindy Weideman and Dr. Jeff Sue in Citrus Heights to know for sure if your child is a candidate. They’ll take a close look during their pediatric dental checkup and let you know what is recommended to ensure your child’s oral health.
Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and find out if dental sealants are right for your child!
What To Expect After Dental Sealants
Sealants harden quickly, and your child can eat and drink normally right after their appointment. There is no downtime, and the process is completely noninvasive. Your child may notice a slightly different texture on their molars for a few days, but it should not cause any discomfort.
The procedure itself is simple: the tooth is cleaned and dried, a gentle gel is applied for a few seconds to help the sealant bond, then the sealant is brushed on and cured with a special light. There are no shots or drills, and the entire process is often completed during a routine cleaning visit.
Sealants usually last a few years but can wear down over time. At each checkup, your pediatric dentist in Citrus Heights, CA, will check to make sure they’re still intact. If needed, they can be reapplied easily.
To help sealants last, encourage your child to avoid chewing on hard objects, like ice or pens, and keep up with their regular dental visits.
Brushing and Flossing Is Still Necessary After Sealants
While dental sealants are a great tool for preventing cavities, they aren’t a substitute for daily oral hygiene. Sealants only protect the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, leaving the sides, front teeth, and areas between teeth still vulnerable to plaque and bacteria.
Brushing twice a day with toothpaste helps keep all surfaces of the teeth clean. Flossing is equally important, especially for cleaning between teeth where sealants can’t reach. Teaching your child to stick to these habits every day gives them the best chance at maintaining a healthy, cavity-free smile.
A Simple Step That Makes a Big Difference
Dr. Cindy and Dr. Jeff, along with the entire team at Weideman Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Citrus Heights, CA, are happy to walk you through what sealants can do and help you decide what’s right for your child.
Whether your children are new or current patients, we’re here to help your family make confident, informed decisions about your child’s dental health. Schedule your kid’s dentist appointment today!