Parents and dental professionals alike want to make sure that children get the best first step to good oral health. Dental sealants are a very effective way to help protect young teeth from cavities and decay. Dental sealants are in high demand to protect children’s teeth through their early adolescent stage and are frequently suggested by Green Bay WI pediatric dentists. In this article, we discuss what dental sealants are, the benefits of dental sealants for children, and their importance for long-term oral health as explained by general dentist in Green Bay, WI.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin coatings that are painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars) as protection. These zones are prone to forming cavities due to their grooves and pits that may trap glutton particles and microbes. Seals prevent food and bacteria from getting lodged into the teeth and causing decay.
Protective Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children
Cavity Prevention
The main advantage of dental sealants is their capacity to avoid cavities. Brushing and flossing are not able to clean these back teeth well. This adds an extra level of protection in that sealants seal the grooves and pits where bacteria often feel the most at home. Studies show that dental sealants can prevent decay in molars by nearly 80%
Fast & Easy Application
The process of applying dental sealants is quick and painless. The process includes the tooth getting cleaned first, a special gel is used to roughen the surface, the tooth is rinsed and dried, and finally, the sealant being painted onto the tooth enamel. The sealant is then cured with a special light. This whole procedure typically takes just a few minutes per tooth, and it does not need any drilling or anesthesia.
Long-Lasting Protection
Dental sealants are also very great at protecting cavities for a long period. Many sealants last up to 10 years when carefully maintained, though they typically require touch-ups every few years. Routine dental visits also help to monitor that the sealants are intact and working.
An Inexpensive Form of Prevention
Besides, having dental sealants is much more cost-effective than treating cavities. It can be expensive and time-consuming to fill cavities and treat more serious dental problems. Parents can save on dental treatments by investing in sealants.
Positive oral health habits are encouraged
Early exposure to preventive dental care helps children develop healthy habits about their oral care. They tend to appreciate the importance of good dental hygiene and may be more inclined to uphold good habits throughout their life.
Safe and Non-Invasive
Dental sealants are a preventive, safe, permanent (non-invasive) treatment that seals the grooves of the tooth. They will be made from bio-compatible material and will not hurt your teeth or overall health. The application is simple and delivers no discomfort, making it an additional option for kids who would be nervous about dental work.
How Early Should Children Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are usually placed when a child’s permanent molars come in, which is generally between 6 and 12 years old. But for younger kids with craggy grooves in their baby teeth, sealants can be beneficial to help prevent cavities from forming while their permanent teeth come in.
There are several benefits to using dental sealants for children, including the prevention of cavities and the establishment of good dental habits. Pediatric dentists in Green Bay, WI, can provide this vital preventive care to keep children’s cavity-free smiles healthy and bright! By making the investment, parents can prevent their child’s teeth from being decayed and create the building blocks for a lifetime of healthy teeth. Contact the pediatries in Green Bay for any clarifications or if you want to book an appointment.
