Dental Sealants in Highland Village
Prevent Cavities With Dental Sealants
If your child is cavity-prone or you just want to make sure their teeth stay healthy as they grow, dental sealants are a great choice. At Pediatric Dental World, our board-certified pediatric dentists can provide your child with the expert treatment they need. Contact us now to schedule an appointment.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants use a special type of liquid dental resin, which is applied directly to your child’s rear teeth. Then, your child’s pediatric dentist will use a special type of UV light to harden it, creating a barrier between your child’s enamel and their mouth.
This means their enamel will be protected from oral bacteria, acid, sugar and food particles, and other such threats. In turn, this dramatically reduces the risk of your child developing cavities. Along with good at-home oral care and routine teeth cleanings, dental sealants help keep your child’s mouth healthy.
A simple solution for cavity-prone kids
The Dental Sealant Process
Dental sealants take only minutes to apply, and can usually be done as part of a six-month pediatric teeth cleaning and oral exam at Pediatric Dental World.
Teeth cleaning
First, your child will need to have their teeth thoroughly cleaned to prepare for sealants. Their rear teeth will also be “etched” with a mild acid. This roughens them up to ensure the sealant can create a strong bond.
Sealant Application
Once your child’s teeth have been prepared, a thin layer of resin will be painted onto the rear teeth by their dentist. This will be “cured” with a UV light to harden it and create a durable barrier that will protect your child’s teeth from cavities.
What Are Dental Sealants Recommended For Kids?
Dental sealants are usually recommended for all kids once their first adult molars come out. This usually happens around the age of 6. Then, they are applied again at the age of about 12 or 13, when your child’s final set of adult molars emerge.
All kids can benefit from sealants, since they can prevent up to 80% of cavities. Sealants are an especially good choice if your child has struggled with decay in their baby teeth, your child’s molars have especially deep pits or grooves, or their teeth have weak enamel.
The Benefits Of Dental Sealants
Not sure if dental sealants are really necessary for your little one? Here are a few reasons to consider dental sealants.
Covered by insurance
Most dental plans cover dental sealants for kids under 18, which keeps your out-of-pocket cost low.
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Keep teeth healthy
It’s always better to prevent cavities completely when possible, and preserve your child’s natural tooth. With sealants, you can get peace of mind and avoid treating cavities with fillings, crowns, and other such restorative treatments.
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Save time and money
Preventing cavities with dental sealants saves you time and money, since you can avoid treatments like fillings. Even if you don’t have dental insurance, sealants for kids are much cheaper than a filling.
Are pediatric dental sealants necessary?
Absolutely! Dental sealants are an essential preventive treatment for children's dental health. They act as a protective barrier, preventing tooth decay and cavities. Even with regular brushing and flossing, it can be challenging for children to reach all the nooks and crannies in their teeth. Dental sealants provide an extra layer of defense against harmful bacteria and acids that can lead to tooth decay.
Are dental sealants safe?
Yes, dental sealants are safe for children. The process of applying dental sealants is quick, painless, and non-invasive. The sealant material used is a thin, plastic coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. It bonds to the tooth enamel, creating a protective shield. Dental sealants have been used for decades and have been proven to be safe and effective in preventing tooth decay.
What age should my child get dental sealants?
The ideal time to get dental sealants for your child is as soon as their permanent molars erupt, usually around the age of 6. However, dental sealants can also be applied to other permanent teeth that are at risk of developing cavities. It is best to consult with a pediatric dentist who can assess your child's specific dental needs and recommend the appropriate timing for dental sealant application.
Dental sealants are a valuable investment in your child's oral health. They provide long-lasting protection against tooth decay and cavities, reducing the need for more extensive dental treatments in the future. By sealing off the deep grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of the teeth, dental sealants create a smooth surface that is easier to clean and maintain.
The application of dental sealants is a simple and painless process. It involves cleaning the teeth, applying an etching gel to create a rough surface for better adhesion, and then carefully painting the sealant material onto the teeth. The sealant is then hardened using a special curing light, ensuring a secure bond to the tooth enamel.
Once the dental sealants are in place, they can last for several years with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. However, it is important to note that dental sealants are not a substitute for good oral hygiene practices. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings are still necessary to maintain optimal oral health.
By investing in dental sealants for your child, you are taking a proactive step towards preventing tooth decay and cavities. This preventive measure can save your child from unnecessary pain, discomfort, and costly dental treatments in the future. Don't wait until problems arise – talk to a pediatric dentist today about dental sealants for your child.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to dental health. Dental sealants are a safe and effective way to protect your child's teeth and give them a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
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