Dental sealants are one of the most powerful preventive care treatments for kids. Because children are especially vulnerable to cavities, parents need all the help they can get to help their kids fight tooth decay. Through this simple and pain-free procedure, your child can get powerful and long-lasting cavity protection on some of their most vulnerable.
Children are more likely than adults to get cavities for a number of reasons. First, the enamel on baby teeth is less strong than on adult teeth. In addition, children are more likely to eat a diet higher in sugary or acidic foods and drinks when they are just learning proper oral hygiene.
However, the molars are especially vulnerable to tooth decay. Some baby molars and most adult molars have deep grooves and fissures on their biting surfaces, where plaque can collect and cause cavities. Tooth brushing often misses the plaque and bacteria that collect there, making it harder to prevent tooth decay.
Dental sealants contain a plastic resin that, when applied to the biting surface of molars and premolars, helps keep cavity-causing plaque and bacteria out of these groves and fissures. Once applied, they act as a barrier that fills the deep groves and fishers and stops cavities before they start. They provide an extra layer of protection during the years in which children are most vulnerable to cavities.
The procedure itself is fairly simple and quick and can even be done by a pediatric dentist during a child's regular dental appointment. First, the dentist cleans and drys the teeth. Next, the dentist applies an acidic gel to roughen the teeth surfaces so the sealant material can adhere properly. After a few seconds, the dentist rinses off the acidic gel and cleans and dries the teeth again. During the final step, the dentist applies the sealant gel to the teeth surfaces and hardens it with a special light. There is no drilling or anesthesia required.
Dental sealants are generally recommended for children when their permanent molars and premolars come in. However, if the child has deep groves and fissures in their baby molars, a pediatric dentist may recommend sealants for those as well. The first set of permanent molars comes in around age six, and the second set comes in about age 12. Dental sealants can protect teeth for up to 10 years. Dental sealants should not be placed on teeth with active tooth decay.
A pediatric dentist is a dental specialist who focuses on children's dental care from infancy to 18. They have the most experience working with children and understand their unique needs. A pediatric dentist can provide the most accurate guidance on cavity protection for a child. These specialists not only provide dental sealants but also comprehensive therapeutic and preventive dental services for children.
There is something parents can do now that will greatly impact their child's oral health. Dental sealants offer years of important cavity prevention for kids. Call our office today to learn more about dental sealants and other pediatric dental services.
Request an appointment here: https://bergencountypediatricdentistry.com or call Bergen County Pediatric Dentistry at (201) 312-6937 for an appointment in our Allendale office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Sealants in Allendale, NJ.
Dental sealants are thin coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. Grooves and pits in these teeth make them susceptible to cavities because they may collect food and bacteria. Sealants for the teeth are an easy and painless technique to protect young ones' teeth from decay. This…
Wondering what a kids dentist recommends for baby teeth? Read on to learn more. Giving children the best oral health care is one of the most important jobs parents have. The ideal kids' dentist will lay the foundation for healthy gums and teeth for life. Keeping your child's smile healthy requires following a specific routine.…
Pediatric dentists want you to know how important baby teeth are. Pediatric dentists often do not see a child at the dentist’s office until your child already has a problem. The health of baby teeth in children has a direct impact on the health of permanent teeth. Your dentist can be a great partner in…
Looking for more information on children’s dental care? Good idea. This information is especially beneficial for new parents, as they need to fully understand the dental care requirements recommended by dental professionals. There are dental guidelines in place that listWanting more insight on children’s dental care? When children are sitting in a dental chair, there…