There’s no denying the prevalence of tooth decay. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 21% of children between the ages of 2 and 5 and 51% of children between the ages of 6 and 11 have a cavity. Furthermore, roughly 90% of Americans have had at least one cavity by their 21st birthday. While these numbers are staggering, it’s important to note that there is a way to provide your child’s smile with an added layer of protection: dental sealants. To learn more about this decay-preventing solution, keep reading for the answers to some frequently asked questions!
How Do Dental Sealants Work?
When food particles are left on your child’s teeth, they produce an acid that creates holes (aka cavities). While good habits like brushing twice a day and flossing continue to be crucial, dental sealants provide their teeth with an additional layer of protection. The thin, clear layer prevents debris from clinging to the surface, minimizing your child’s risk of tooth decay in the process.
How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
To apply dental sealants, your child’s dentist will first clean and dry their teeth. Next, they will place an acidic gel over them so the dental sealant has something strong to adhere to. After a few seconds, the gel will be rinsed away, the teeth will be dried again, and the sealant will be carefully applied to each groove of their tooth. The final step will be to harden it in place with a special blue light. That’s it! The entire process only takes a few minutes to complete.
Who Can Get Dental Sealants?
Fortunately, both adults and children alike can get dental sealants! Oftentimes, dental sealants are first placed when your child’s molars come in (usually around six and then again around 12). Since these back teeth are difficult to clean, dental sealants can help your little one keep them cavity-free from the start.
Does It Hurt to Get Dental Sealants?
Thankfully, no. The process is so painless that your child’s dentist won’t even need to numb their mouth!
Dental sealants are quick and painless, but one of the biggest benefits is that they can protect your child’s teeth from tooth decay. This benefits their smile, their bite, and your wallet. So, if their molars recently broke through the gumline or it’s been more than six months since their last visit, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with their dentist!
About the Practice
Kids’ Smiles on Lincoln is proud to welcome infants, teens, and everyone in between! Our board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Myles Clancy, offers a wide range of preventive care services to help protect your child’s smile from decay throughout the years, including dental sealants. If you’d like to learn more about dental sealants or want to schedule an appointment for your child at our office, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (508) 290-0090.