As parents, we want the best for our kids, from their education to upbringing, physical health, and wellbeing. We also want them to retain their pearly white smiles throughout life. Unfortunately, many kids develop tooth decay in their early years, which creates a host of issues that linger throughout life. If you’re concerned about the oral health of your kids and want to protect them from tooth decay, dental sealants are an excellent option.
What are Sealants?
Dental Sealants are a tooth-colored, plastic-like material that is applied on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, molars and premolar teeth. These areas have many grooves and pits that trap food that can be difficult to remove with just brushing alone. Sealants fill the pits and grooves on the teeth and molars with a flowable material, preventing food impaction and ultimately tooth decay. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dental sealants can prevent 80% of dental cavities.
How Sealants Work
Your dentist will use a small brush to apply the sealant to the biting surface of the molars and premolars. Once dry, the sealant hardens and forms a robust protective coating over the tooth. Dental sealants can protect your child’s teeth from cavities for up to ten years. Your dentist will monitor the sealants for cracks or chips during your regular dental check-ups and will repair or replace it with a fresh one.
When To Get Sealants
Dental Sealants are usually recommended for children during the cavity-prone years of ages 6 through 14. Sealants are typically applied as the molars and premolars come in. Sealants are sometimes recommended by dentists for baby teeth in kids in cases when they have very deep pits and fissures, which makes them at risk of developing tooth decay.
Arcadia Pediatric Dental specializes in the dental care of children 0-18. Most insurance plans and AHCCCS are accepted. Parents always welcome in exams and treatment. To schedule an appointment visit us at arcadiapediatricdental.com or call (480) 207-5070.
