Extra Protection for Growing Smiles
Brushing and flossing are essential—but some parts of your child’s mouth need extra help staying cavity-free. That’s where dental sealants come in. At Pediatric Dentistry of Reston, Drs. Neda Kalantar, Zaidi and Fernandes offer this quick and painless treatment to protect your child’s molars from tooth decay.
Sealants are one of the most effective tools in preventive pediatric dentistry, and they can keep your child smiling confidently for years to come.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of your child’s back teeth (molars and premolars). These teeth have deep grooves and pits where food and bacteria can easily get trapped—making them a common place for cavities.
The sealant acts as a barrier, keeping out plaque, food particles, and acid that can lead to tooth decay.
Why Sealants Are Important for Kids
According to the CDC, sealants can prevent 80% of cavities in molars. That’s huge—especially since these teeth do the most chewing and are hardest for kids to clean.
Benefits of dental sealants include:
- Cavity prevention in hard-to-reach areas
- Fast, painless, and non-invasive
- Long-lasting protection (up to 5–10 years)
- Reduces need for fillings and costly treatment later
- Safe for kids and teens of all ages
When Should My Child Get Sealants?
Dr. Kalantar usually recommends applying sealants:
- As soon as permanent molars come in (typically around age 6 and again at age 12)
- For baby teeth with deep grooves in children who are prone to cavities
- For children or teens who are still developing strong brushing habits
During your child’s regular checkup, we’ll check if sealants are needed—or if existing ones need a touch-up.
What Happens During a Sealant Appointment?
Getting dental sealants is quick, easy, and completely painless:
- The tooth is cleaned and dried.
- A special gel is applied to prepare the surface.
- The gel is rinsed off and the tooth is dried again.
- The sealant is painted onto the tooth and hardened with a special curing light.
That’s it—no shots, no drilling, and no discomfort. Your child can eat and drink right after their appointment.
Protect Your Child’s Smile with Pediatric Dentistry of Reston
As a trusted pediatric dentist in Reston, we focuse on preventive care to keep your child’s teeth healthy and strong. We make every visit fun, educational, and stress-free—so your child builds great dental habits from the start.
Schedule Your Child’s Sealant Appointment Today
Want to give your child an extra layer of protection against cavities? Call Pediatric Dentistry of Reston at (703) 435-1500 to schedule a visit with us. We’ll help you decide if dental sealants are the right preventive step for your child’s smile.dental sealants are the right choice for your child’s smile.