A dental sealant may protect your child’s smile from cavities and decay. As your local, hometown pediatric dentists and team, we are dedicated to helping your child avoid the problems caused by cavities so they can continue to enjoy a healthy smile as they grow. Sealants are a great option for protecting your child’s teeth and helping them avoid the need for restorative treatments such as fillings or crowns.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a key preventive measure in pediatric dentistry, designed to protect your child’s teeth from cavities and decay. A sealant is a thin, protective coating made from a clear or tooth-colored resin material. It is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, particularly the molars and premolars, which are most prone to cavities. The resin quickly hardens and forms a barrier that helps block food particles, plaque and bacteria from getting trapped in the grooves of the teeth.
Should Your Child Receive Sealants?
Children benefit significantly from sealants because their back teeth are harder to clean effectively with regular brushing. Molars have natural pits and fissures where food can easily become lodged, making them more susceptible to decay. By applying sealants soon after the molars emerge, typically between the ages of 6 and 12, your child’s teeth can stay protected during their most cavity-prone years.
The Sealant Application Process
The process of applying sealants is quick, easy and completely comfortable. During a visit to our office, our pediatric dentists will clean and dry the tooth, then paint the sealant onto the tooth’s surface. A special light may be used to help the sealant harden more quickly. Once in place, sealants can last for several years with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
Sealants are an effective and simple way to reduce the risk of cavities in children, making them an essential part of maintaining your child’s oral health. If your child’s molars have not yet been sealed, or you are curious about how dental sealants can help protect your child’s smile, we encourage you to call our office at 801-217-3359 today or book online and schedule a visit with Dr. Renn, Dr. Brett, Dr. Tate or one of our associates at one of our convenient Kids Town Pediatric Dentistry locations in Davis and Weber Counties. By taking this preventive step, you can help ensure your child enjoys a healthy, cavity-free smile for years to come.