Dental sealants are an essential method of protection for children’s teeth in their early years, laying the foundation for their future oral health. It is a simple and effective procedure that can aid the prevention of tooth decay. Before you consider dental sealants, find out more about this popular aspect of kids’ dental care.
How do dental sealants work?
Dental professionals use a material made of plastic resin to form a coating over the top surface of your child’s permanent back teeth. This resin layer acts as a barrier, protecting the vulnerable areas of the tooth such as the fissures. These grooves are often susceptible to plaque buildup and can be harder to clean.
With sealants in place, food particles are not able to enter these tiny gaps in the chewing surface, helping to prevent tooth decay. With proper oral hygiene and regular, gentle brushing, a dental sealant can last for up to nine years.
The sealant process is completely painless and doesn’t require any specific aftercare. It’s a quick and easy procedure that won’t put your kids through any stress or discomfort.
Above all, it has proven long-term benefits.
What to expect during the procedure
The process of applying a sealant is very straightforward. The dentist cleans, rinses, and dries the teeth to make sure no harmful bacteria become trapped underneath the sealant. They then paint the sealant on and harden it using a special blue light.
The best time for your kids to get dental sealants
Most dental professionals recommend that, for optimal benefit, kids should have dental sealants applied soon after their adult molars emerge. Experts in kids’ dental care advise regular checkups to monitor tooth eruption. For most children, this occurs around the age of six, continuing until they are approximately 12 years old.
Why sealants are a good option
Sealants are a safe and effective method of reducing the likelihood of tooth decay, plaque buildup, and cavities. Dentists have been treating children’s teeth with dental sealants for forty years.
Many young children who are beginning to take care of their dental hygiene may find it difficult to reach the back corners of their mouth. They may miss the spots where bacteria and other food particles get stuck, leading to plaque buildup and tooth decay.
Adding a sealant can provide an extra protective layer, keep your child’s permanent teeth as healthy and strong as possible. If you are interested in dental sealants for your children, contact a reputable provider of kids’ dental care in Birmingham, MI.
