Does My Child Need Dental Sealants?

There are various ways you can prevent cavities, and one of the best things parents can do is teach children to brush and floss each day. However, plaques can still develop, especially in the back teeth, and this can cause decay. It is advisable to use other preventive measures like fluoride and getting kids’ dental sealants near you to protect the teeth.

What Happens If My Child Develops Cavities?

Dental cavities are caused by plaque, a sticky film that builds up on teeth from everyday food and drink and harbors bacteria. The bacteria can attack the teeth and gums, causing cavities and decay. It is essential to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque from your teeth.

Once you notice cavities on their teeth, it is vital to visit an emergency pediatric dentist in Greenwood for immediate treatment.

Some parents mistakenly believe that cavities require the tooth to be removed, but that is not true. The dentist will treat the teeth and use a filling to restore their strength. However, it is best to prevent the decay from developing, and this is when sealants are ideal.

What are Dental Sealants?

Teeth sealants, a protective coating, are applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth to protect teeth from cavities. Dental sealants are applied by a dental professional and can last for years, sometimes even decades.

Dental sealants are generally recommended for children after the permanent teeth come out, although there is no specific age requirement for when they should be applied. The dental sealant will last for about ten years before being replaced, but it can last longer if not exposed to acidic foods and drinks.

How Can You Tell Your Child Needs A Dental Sealant?

There are several indicators that a kids dentist in Greenwood can look for when recommending dental sealants, and they include:

• Deep grooves and pits make chewing and grinding food easy. But, they tend to trap food, contributing to tooth decay. If your child’s molars have deep pits (which may look like holes in their mouth), sealants might be recommended to protect teeth from decay.
• If your child has thin enamel, the dentist may recommend sealants to shield the teeth from decay and acid attacks.
• History of cavities. If your child has had a history of cavities in their teeth, a dental sealant will be used to help decrease the risk of future cavities.

But, remember, sealants are a terrific way to keep teeth healthy, whether your child is at risk of developing cavities.

Who Can Use Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are recommended for children after the permanent teeth begin to come out, at around age 7. However, these plastic coatings can benefit all people, including adults who have experienced cavities in their teeth and need protection from future decay. They can also be used for people who have problems with their enamel or gum tissue and need protection from tooth decay.

How Are the Dental Sealants Applied?

Getting dental sealant at a pediatric dental office in Greenwood is straightforward. The dentist will first remove any plaque or tartar before preparing the teeth for the sealants. Dr. John Patangan will apply an acidic solution to etch the teeth and make it easy for the sealant to stick on the teeth.
The dentist will then use a specially designed light-cured resin material using a brush and allow it to harden. The sealant application process is easy, lasts for about 30 minutes, and does not require anesthesia.

How Long Do the Dental Sealants Last?

These thin plastic coatings can last up to 10 years, but they tend to wear away over time, so visit the dentist regularly for annual cleanings.

Once they have worn down too far and you start noticing other tooth decay, it is vital to replace the sealant as needed.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Kids First Dental for more information about dental sealants and other preventive measures that you can use.