Dental sealants for kids are used as an extra line of defense for your children’s teeth against tooth decay. Children without sealants are at risk of cavities due to food particles and germs that can hide in hard-to-reach places. With that being said, your pediatric dentistry visit should involve discussing sealants.
The pits and fissures of molars are not easy to clean, especially for children. This is why kids benefit from sealants because even with great care for their teeth, hidden cavities can form. Let’s look at what dental sealants are and when your child should get them, and what the procedure is like for your child.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings painted on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. They can either be clear or made to match the color of surrounding teeth. While your children should still practice good oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing, dental sealants can help to prevent cavities from forming.
When Should Your Child Get Them?
Dentists recommend protecting your child’s teeth with sealants as early as possible, with first molars erupting around age six, and second molars around age 12. In some cases, they can be applied to other permanent teeth or even baby teeth if they are prone to cavities due to deep grooves.
What is the Procedure & After Care Like?
The application of sealants is quick and painless and only takes one visit with your pediatric dentist. Teeth are first cleaned and dried, ensuring the applied sealants adhere to the tooth. The sealant is then painted on and cured with a special light.
After treatment, your child can eat and drink as normal. The sealant can possibly be cracked by chewing on hard objects, such as ice, but otherwise, you should focus on your child’s oral health maintenance as you normally would. Regular dental check-ups and eating healthily are still necessary for taking good care of teeth.
Sealants for Preventing Cavities in Children
As a parent, you can rest assured that your school-aged children’s teeth are safer from the risk of cavities thanks to dental sealants for kids. The process is simple, and your trusted dentist will do everything they can to create a suitable dental experience for your child.
Get in touch with us to plan your visit and learn more about dental sealants for kids!