Dental sealants are a new and effective form of preventative dentistry. These thin layers form a protective measure against gum disease and the formation of cavities. It can help prevent dental care down the road, saving time and money. At All Kids Dental of Suffolk, we strive to deliver effective preventative care options. These help to protect your children’s teeth from decay while enhancing overall oral health. Patients of any age can benefit from dental sealants as part of their comprehensive care.
How Dental Sealants Protect Against Decay
Dental sealants are a form of plastic that is painted onto your tooth’s chewing surface. The most common location that these are applied is on the back molars. These plastic coatings defend your child’s teeth against the formation of plaque and tartar. They also help prevent food particles from getting lodged in the nooks and crannies. This preventative style of dentistry is an essential line of defense against pulpitis, cavities, and long-term tooth decay. Some dental sealants also contain fluoride. This is an important mineral in oral health that strengthens enamel.
Children often have difficulty brushing correctly, with the rear molars being the most neglected teeth. Thankfully, these sealants can protect children’s baby teeth from decay, allowing them to remain in place and support the growth of adult teeth. Sealants have demonstrated a good ability to reduce the risk of dental problems over time, making them a great investment for patients of any age.
At All Kids Dental of Suffolk, we make dental sealants part of our standard list of suggested preventative care options. We have seen the benefits that children receive from dental sealants. Some of the benefits our members see are:
- Preventing Tooth Decay: Dental sealants are an excellent follow-up to treatments that address existing tooth decay. Once the decay is gone, the dental sealants can help prevent their reformation. This is in addition to their ability to prevent decay in the first place.
- Cost-Effective Care: Because of its effectiveness at preventing decay, they’re cost-effective for families and individuals needing dental care.
- Enduring Solution: When combined with regular dental visits and proper hygiene, dental sealants can last for up to 15 years.
- No Risks: There are no currently known side effects or risks associated with applying dental sealants.
The Dental Sealant Procedure With All Kids Dental of Suffolk
There are three steps to getting dental sealants with All Kids Dental of Suffolk. The first stage begins with a thorough cleaning of your child’s teeth. This is followed by applying a special gel that will provide mild pitting to the surface of the target tooth. This “roughs up” the surface to help the dental sealant adhere to the tooth. The next stage is to apply the sealant to the tooth and allow it to cure facilitated by the aid of a special curing light.
If you want your child to experience the benefits of dental sealants, call our office to schedule an appointment today. You can schedule your appointment in Suffolk, VA, today.