What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made from composite resin. These coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of your child’s back teeth (molars and premolars). The sealants act as a barrier, preventing bacteria, plaque and food particles from getting trapped in the deep grooves and fissures of these teeth, where brushing and flossing may have difficulty reaching.
Applying dental sealants is a straightforward and painless process that typically takes only a few minutes per tooth and doesn’t require any shots or numbing. Our experienced dental professionals at McAdams Dental will clean the teeth thoroughly, apply a conditioning gel to roughen the tooth surface, and then paint the sealant onto the grooves of the teeth. Once the sealant is in place, it is hardened with a special curing light, ensuring a durable protective layer.
Why Are Sealants Vital for Children?
Children are particularly susceptible to cavities due to several factors:
1. Tooth Structure: Children’s teeth have deeper grooves and fissures, making them more vulnerable to cavity-causing bacteria.
2. Oral Hygiene: Young children may not have developed proper brushing and flossing techniques, leaving some areas of their teeth more prone to decay.
3. Diet: Childhood diets often include sugary snacks and drinks that can contribute to the formation of cavities.
1. Cavity Prevention: Dental sealants are incredibly effective at preventing cavities. They can reduce the risk of tooth decay by up to 80% in the first two years after application and continue to protect against cavities for several years.
2. Cost-Effective: Investing in dental sealants is a cost-effective preventive measure. The cost of applying sealants is far lower than the expenses associated with treating cavities and other dental problems later on.
3. Painless and Non-Invasive: The process of applying dental sealants is painless and requires no drilling or removal of tooth structure, making it an easy and comfortable experience for children.
4. Improved Oral Health: By reducing the likelihood of cavities, dental sealants contribute to improved oral health, preserving the integrity of your child’s natural teeth and minimizing the need for more invasive dental treatments in the future.
At McAdams Dental, we believe in taking a proactive approach to dental care, especially when it comes to children. Dental sealants are a valuable preventive measure that can significantly reduce the risk of cavities, promoting long-term oral health and well-being. If you have any questions about dental sealants or want to schedule an appointment for your child, contact us today at (480) 991-4727. Let’s work together to protect your child’s bright smile!
See what the The American Dental Association says about dental sealants!
www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/sealants