Even when you stick to a strict routine of brushing and flossing, it’s still possible for your child’s molars to harbor bacteria. This is because the molars have ridges and crevices known as grooves. These grooves are especially prone to building up the bacteria that can lead to tooth decay. Even with experienced brushers, being able to clean those grooves out properly can be a real challenge. This becomes especially pronounced for our little ones who aren’t quite as experienced with the in-depth brushing required to clean the grooves. That’s where dental sealant comes in.
What is dental sealant?
Dental sealant is a thin coating applied to your child’s molars to protect them from decay. The liquid sealant is bonded to the tooth and dries by using a blue LED light which leaves behind a hard layer of protection. The process is painless and relatively quick. Your child’s dentist will apply a thin layer of acidic gel onto the tooth which will prepare the tooth for the sealant. After just a few minutes, the dentist will rinse this off and dry the tooth. They’ll then apply the sealant and then use a special blue light to solidify the sealant. The process is quick, effective, and safe. Aside from allergies, there are also no known side effects of sealant.
Sealants for kids
The American Dental Association recommends dental sealants for everyone, including kids. Your child’s first molars will appear around the age of 6 and second molars break through around age 12. It’s important to protect these teeth as early as possible which can keep them cavity-free and save time and money down the road. Research has shown that kids who get sealants are up to three times less likely to develop tooth decay compared to their peers who do not. Great oral hygiene for your child can even have an impact on your child’s performance in school. When a child experiences issues with their teeth this can affect their ability to eat and sleep, which can have negative impacts on their success in school. Sealants may wear off over time and may need to be re-applied. Your child’s teeth will be checked at every exam and cleaning appointment during which the sealants will be evaluated for any maintenance needs.
Given the safety andGiven the safety and the overall benefits of dental sealants, we recommend talking with your pediatric dentist about whether sealants are right for your child. Children work hard to learn how to brush well, but even adults sometimes miss critical areas of the mouth. Sealants have the potential to save a lot of headaches and help to promote a lifetime of excellent oral hygiene. Contact us at Cumberland Valley Pediatric Dentistry to schedule your child for a sealant appointment!
