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Will Dental Sealants Really Protect My Child’s Teeth?

Will Dental Sealants Really Protect My Child's Teeth?

At Smile Explorers Pediatric Dentistry, we are proponents of prevention rather than treating dental problems after they develop. One of the ways we do that is by offering dental sealants, a pain-free and simple procedure that has shown to be one of the most effective measures to protect your child’s teeth and prevent tooth decay. We are all about keeping those pearly whites bright and healthy for a lifetime!

How Do Dental Sealants Protect Your Child’s Teeth?

If you look closely at the chewing surfaces of your child’s permanent premolars and molars, you’ll see tiny grooves and crevices called pits and fissures, which easily trap plaque and food debris. That provides the perfect environment for cavity-causing bacteria to flourish and produce acids that erode the tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay and cavities. Even if your child brushes and flosses regularly, it’s not always easy to clean these hard-to-reach areas.

Dental sealants are thin resin coatings we paint onto the back teeth’s chewing surfaces, essentially sealing out any bacteria or food particles. They dramatically reduce the risk of tooth decay and cavities.

When Should Your Child Have Dental Sealants Applied?

The preferred time to apply dental sealants is when the permanent molars come in, around age six for the first set of molars and twelve for the second. Protecting these teeth right from the start will ensure they stay healthy and sound for many years to come. If your child didn’t get the sealants applied when the premolars and molars erupted, it’s not too late. The best time for dental sealants is now!

What Is the Dental Sealants Procedure?

The dental sealant process is simple, quick, and painless, with no anesthetic shots and no drilling. We will start by cleaning and drying the teeth, then preparing their chewing surfaces by applying an etching solution to help the material bond. Next, we’ll apply the sealant material, which will flow into every pit and crevice. The last step is using a curing light to harden the material. The resulting plastic coating will act as a protective shield, keeping tooth decay at bay.

How Should You Care for Teeth with Sealants?

Placing dental sealants is no substitute for maintaining proper oral hygiene practices. Encourage your child to brush and floss at least twice a day for two minutes and to floss daily. Limit the consumption of sweet treats, starches, and sticky foods. Dental sealants coupled with proper oral hygiene practices are two effective ways of keeping those pearly whites healthy and cavity-free. 

How Long Do Sealants Last?

Dental sealants usually last for 5 to 10 years. If the sealant material becomes worn or damaged, the protective shield can no longer prevent cavities. Our Smile Explorers Pediatric Dentistry team will evaluate your child’s sealants during routine dental visits and replace them if they show any signs of wear.

Dental Sealants Near me

Contact Smile Explorers Pediatric Dentistry in Glendale, AZ, to learn more about dental sealants and how they help keep cavities at bay. Our team is committed to providing our young patients quality preventive services to ensure they enjoy healthy teeth and pain-free smiles for years to come. Call us to schedule your appointment today!