Manuel Castillo, DDS
Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

Our Services

Sealants

Pediatric Dental Sealants

Food and bacteria can become packed in the grooves of the back molars, and even the most careful brushing and flossing cannot fully clean these areas. Dental sealants are clear plastic coverings that protect the chewing surfaces from tooth decay by providing a barrier to food and bacteria. At Happy Pediatric Dentistry, sealants are BPA free. It’s application is simple and painless:

  • The sealant is painted onto the tooth, filling depressions and grooves.
  • Hardening takes place in just a matter of seconds.
  • Most applications last several years with normal chewing and biting.
  • Sealants can be reapplied as necessary.

 

Children should get sealants on their permanent molars as soon as the teeth come in — before decay attacks the teeth. Teenagers and young adults who are prone to decay may also need sealants. Sealants are a cost-effective prevention option. When used along with regular dental check-ups and cleanings, they provide the most effective defense for tooth decay. They can be applied during a regular check-up.

 

THE MORE YOU KNOW
WHY DOES MY CHILD GRIND HER TEETH?

Parents may worry when they hear a grinding noise or notice wear to their children’s dentition (teeth getting shorter).
This commonly occurs in children until age six to nine. Most experts agree that this is due to “normal” stress. Sometimes events that adults do not consider to be stressful are stressful to children – new rules, getting dressed some days, school, etc. Many youngsters will grind their teeth until the permanent molars erupt at age six years. No treatment is needed during this phase. Most will outgrow the habit. But if grinding persists once the lower permanent teeth erupt, a mouth guard can be made to protect the new teeth.