How Dental Sealants Prevent Cavities in Kids

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.

Why children are susceptible to cavities

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.

How dental sealants help

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 dental sealant procedure procedure

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.

When children should get dental sealants

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.

Why see a pediatric dentist for dental sealants

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.

Being proactive about preventing childhood cavities

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://www.babytoothdoc.com or call Dennis R. Campbell, DDS at (828) 417-3828 for an appointment in our Asheville office.

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