Your child’s first dental exam should occur when the first teeth are in, usually between six months and one year of age. During your child’s first check-up at our Weston Spencer DDS – Conservative Comprehensive Dentistry office in the La Jolla, California area, we can discuss sealants, a clear layer of plastic applied to the grooved surfaces of the teeth.
Sealants protect the teeth and prevent cavities by filling in the crevasses where food particles can get caught and breed detrimental bacteria. They are especially effective in the back teeth where most cavities occur.
The application process takes only one short dental visit. The teeth are cleaned, dried, and then liquid sealant is applied to teeth and hardened: it’s quick and painless. Your child will be able to eat right after the appointment.
Sealants are covered by most dental insurance plans. For California parents who pay out-of-pocket, sealants are still cost-effective considering the cavities and future visits that can be avoided. Some dental insurance plans have age limitations for sealants. Check your policy if you are unsure of the qualifications. At Weston Spencer DDS – Conservative Comprehensive Dentistry we usually recommend having sealants applied as early as possible.
If properly cared for, sealants can last for many years, protecting your child during the most cavity-prone ages.
Diligent oral hygiene and refraining from biting into hard objects are essential and will help the sealants last longer. Dr. Spencer will check the sealants during routine dental visits and recommend re-application or repair if required.
Sealants, brushing and flossing, a balanced diet, and twice-yearly visits to Weston Spencer DDS – Conservative Comprehensive Dentistry in the La Jolla, California area are vital for pediatric dental health. For more information about sealants, give us a call.
Our goal is to whiten, brighten, and straighten your smile so you (and your child) can smile with confidence! For more details about sealants and your other pediatric dentistry needs, please contact Weston Spencer DDS – Conservative Comprehensive Dentistry today.
Contact Weston Spencer DDS – Conservative Comprehensive Dentistry:
858-683-1301
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
7855 Fay Avenue Suite 200
La Jolla, California
92037