There are many ways that parents and dentists alike try to make brushing and flossing alluring to children. No matter what, sometimes kids’ teeth don’t get the attention they need to be strong and healthy. It is hard for children to understand why brushing and flossing their teeth regularly is so important. Smile Reef would like to talk about the benefits involved in getting dental sealants for your child’s teeth.
What are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a plastic coating placed on the top of teeth to protect them and help keep them free from cavities. This is especially helpful for those back molars that have deep grooves and pits in them where your child’s toothbrush has a hard time reaching.
Do Dental Sealants Work?
There are times that it doesn’t matter how vigilant you are at brushing and flossing, your teeth are just more prone to cavities. Sometimes it is almost impossible to keep food and other harmful bacteria from building up in the small pits and fissures of your teeth. Studies have shown that right after you get a resin-based dental sealant, it can reduce the risk of cavities for that tooth by 80%. After about 4 years that number goes down to around 60%. It is very important that the teeth are brushed and flossed daily in order for the sealants to do their job though. It doesn’t mean that you don’t have to take proper care of your teeth. Sealants should never replace proper dental care.
When Should Your Child Get Their Teeth Sealed? When Adult Molars Come In? On Baby Teeth?
It is recommended that you seal your child’s teeth as soon as their adult molars have come in. Most dental insurances will cover it. When it comes to baby teeth, you should consider the child’s risk for cavities. Some people are just more prone to them. If you are having a hard time keeping your child’s teeth healthy, you might want to consider dental sealants on baby teeth.
How Long do Dental Sealants Last?
Dental sealants have been known to last for up to 10 years. This is the case only when they are taken care of. If your child brushes and flosses regularly and doesn’t eat too much hard or sticky candy, they will last much longer. It is important to have the sealants monitored by your dentist with normal visits to make sure the sealants are still intact and haven’t broken or cracked.
Is the Dental Sealant Procedure Invasive?
The procedure is very quick and painless. It doesn’t require any numbing to take place. The tooth will be cleaned and conditioned first, then the sealant will be applied to the tooth. It is cured with the use of a special light. The hardest part of the entire procedure is probably the fact that your child needs to stay still during it. As soon as the dental sealant is done and cured, your child can eat and drink as usual.
Dental Sealants & Expert Pediatric Dentistry & Care in Las Vegas Nevada
If your child is more prone to tooth decay, having dental sealants is a great way to help reduce cavities. Smile Reef offers dental sealants and a fun and friendly staff that will help your child feel comfortable while their teeth are getting sealed. Call us today for an appointment.
