As a parent, you’ve got a lot on your plate. Luckily, modern dentistry offers great ways to keep your child’s teeth protected and healthy, giving you one less thing to worry about. Enter dental sealants. These protective coatings effectively reduce cavities in your child’s molars. But what are they, and how do they work? Continue reading to learn all you need to know about dental sealants and how they can protect your child’s oral health.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These teeth have grooves and pits that can easily trap food particles and bacteria, making them more susceptible to cavities. Sealants fill in these spaces, creating a smooth surface that’s easier to clean and less likely to develop decay!
How Are Sealants Applied?
Applying sealants is a quick and painless process. Here’s what to expect:
- Cleaning & Drying: The dentist will thoroughly clean your child’s teeth to remove any plaque and debris and then dry them using an absorbent material.
- Etching: Next, a special acidic gel is applied to the chewing surfaces of their teeth. This makes them a bit rough, which helps the sealant bond to the tooth.
- Applying the Sealant: The teeth are rinsed and dried again. Then the sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel and hardened using a special light.
The entire process takes just a few minutes per tooth, and the result is a strong, protective barrier against cavities!
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Sealants typically last around 5 to 10 years, depending on your child’s habits and how well they take care of their teeth. During regular dental checkups, their dentist will check the condition of the sealants and can reapply them if necessary.
Do Sealants Replace Fluoride?
Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay throughout all your child’s teeth. While sealants provide an extra layer of protection against cavities for molars and premolars, they do not replace the need for fluoride treatments. However, the good news is that sealants and fluoride can work together to provide a stronger shield against cavities!
As you can see, dental sealants are a highly effective way to protect your child’s teeth from decay. By understanding what sealants are, how they’re applied, and their benefits, you can make an informed decision about your child’s oral care. If you have any other questions, reach out to your child’s dentist. They’ll be more than happy to ease your mind and help your child smile more safely!
About the Author
Dr. Bryce Cushing is a friendly and passionate pediatric dentist who loves treating and educating his young patients. He graduated with honors from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry, eventually pursuing his pediatric specialty through the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Today, with over 15 years of experience, he provides gentle care for tiny teeth. Call (402) 773-7873 to schedule an appointment for your child at Surf’s Up Pediatric Dentistry or visit our website to dive into a menu of our services!