As a parent, you want the best for your child, and that includes their oral health. While regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups play a huge role in maintaining a healthy smile, there are additional steps you can take to protect your child’s teeth. One of the most effective preventive measures is the use of dental sealants. These thin coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of your child’s back teeth, providing a barrier against cavities and decay. Here’s what you need to know about dental sealants, how they work, and why they could be an important part of your child’s oral care routine.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a protective coating made of plastic or resin material that is applied to the grooves and pits of the back teeth, primarily the molars and premolars. These grooves are deep, and while brushing is essential, it can be difficult for a toothbrush to reach the narrow, deep crevices where food particles and bacteria can accumulate. Sealants fill in these crevices, creating a smooth surface that is easier to clean and preventing plaque buildup that leads to cavities.
The procedure is simple, non-invasive, and painless. Your dentist will clean and dry the tooth, apply an acid gel to the surface, and then rinse and dry it again. The sealant is then painted onto the tooth, where it bonds to the enamel. A special light may be used to harden the sealant, which usually takes just a few minutes.
Why Are Dental Sealants Important?
Children, particularly those between the ages of 6 and 14, are at an increased risk of cavities, especially on their back teeth, which are harder to clean. The grooves in these teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to tooth decay. Dental sealants provide an additional layer of protection, making it less likely for cavities to form. Here are several reasons why sealants are beneficial:
- Prevention of Cavities: The primary benefit of dental sealants is that they protect the enamel from decay. Sealants act as a barrier against plaque and food particles, helping to keep your child’s teeth clean and cavity-free.
- Cost-Effective: Treating cavities with fillings can be expensive. Sealants are a one-time, low-cost treatment that can prevent the need for more expensive procedures in the future. By investing in sealants now, you may save money on dental treatments down the road.
- Long-Lasting Protection: Sealants can last for several years before needing a touch-up. Once they are applied, they work around the clock to protect your child’s teeth from decay, offering long-term peace of mind.
- Easy and Quick Application: The application process is fast, with minimal discomfort, making it an ideal option for children who may feel nervous or anxious about more invasive dental procedures. In just one visit, sealants can provide years of protection.
- Safe and Proven: Dental sealants have been used for decades and are considered to be a safe and effective treatment. The materials used in sealants are non-toxic and have been extensively tested to ensure they are safe for children.
When Should Your Child Get Dental Sealants?
Sealants are typically applied to children’s permanent molars and premolars when they first emerge, usually around the ages of 6 to 12. These teeth are more vulnerable to cavities during this time, so sealing them early on can provide valuable protection.
However, your dentist may also recommend sealants for your child’s baby teeth if they have deep grooves or if your child is prone to cavities. Applying sealants early in life can help set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth.
Your dentist will assess your child’s teeth and recommend sealants at the right time. If your child already has fillings or other dental issues, the dentist will discuss the best approach to maintaining their oral health.
How Do You Maintain Dental Sealants?
One of the best things about dental sealants is that they require very little maintenance. After the application, your child can go back to their normal eating and drinking routine without any restrictions. However, there are a few simple steps to keep in mind:
- Good Oral Hygiene: While dental sealants provide extra protection, it’s still important for your child to brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and food particles from other areas of the teeth and gums. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day will help maintain the health of the sealants and the rest of your child’s teeth.
- Regular Dental Checkups: During regular checkups, your dentist will examine the sealants to ensure they are still intact. If any of the sealants have worn down or chipped, the dentist can reapply them to ensure continuous protection.
- Be Mindful of Hard Foods: While sealants are durable, they are not indestructible. Encourage your child to avoid biting down on very hard foods, like ice or hard candies, which could damage the sealant.
- Check for Signs of Wear: If your child experiences any sensitivity or discomfort around the sealed teeth, it’s important to contact your dentist. These could be signs that the sealant has worn away or is no longer protecting the tooth properly.
Dental Sealants Are Safe and Effective
Dental sealants are a great preventive measure that can help keep your child’s teeth cavity-free, especially in those hard-to-reach back teeth. By applying sealants early on, you can reduce the risk of tooth decay, save money on future dental treatments, and give your child a healthy smile that lasts for years. Sealants are safe, quick, and cost-effective, making them a wise choice for parents who want to protect their child’s oral health.
All Kids Dental Is The Best Choice For Your Child’s Smile
If you are searching for the best dental care for your children in Suffolk and the surrounding Virginia neighborhoods, look no further than All Kids Dental. All Kids Dental has the expertise to live up to its name and make all kids feel comfortable and show off healthy smiles. From infant exams, to tooth-colored fillings and sedation dentistry, to creating an individualized dental plan for children with special needs, All Kids Dental can do it all. For pediatric dental expertise, call and schedule a visit with Dr. Joe and Dr. Brett today!
