There are so many modern conveniences that effect our children’s teeth. Juices, candies, soda, even ice could be working away at the enamel and dentin of our kids teeth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention believe that by the time a child has reached the age of 19, 70% of America’s children will experience tooth decay. Cavities can riddle a mouth and lead to expensive repairs if left unattended. There are quite a few parents who haven’t heard of preventative measures for children but dental sealants could help protect the still developing mouth.
Smile Reef would like to take the opportunity to relate what dental sealants are, their benefits, and how they are applied.
What are Children’s Dental Sealants?
Children’s Dental sealants are a protective barrier placed on kids teeth for the purpose of sealing out food and bacteria which result in cavities. Sealants, used along with a meticulous dental care routine (that includes proper brushing, flossing, fluoride treatments and a healthy diet) will help maintain dental health. While brushing and flossing are crucial elements of any oral health routine, sealants provide additional protection for the grooved areas of teeth from what is known as pit and fissure decay.
Usually children begin to get their adult teeth by the age of 6, and once they have all come through, all teeth should be sealed, but at least primary biting teeth, 6 year old and 12 year old molars and front teeth, should be sealed at a minimum. Dental sealants are a low cost, safe and efficient procedure to protect teeth, especially those prone to cavities.
What are the Benefits of Kid’s Dental Sealants?
• In conjunction with well established oral hygiene habits, dental sealants are extremely effective in preventing cavities.
• A simple procedure that has little invasiveness, is safe and effective. Does not need numbing medications or drilling applications.
• Generally costs less than cavity filling procedures.
How are Children’s Dental Sealants Applied?
1. Tooth Preparation – To begin, the dental hygienist will polish the surface of the tooth removing any plaque and food debris from the pit and fissure exterior. Next, the hygienist will isolate and dry the tooth. Once dried, the hygienist will etch the outer layer of the tooth, rinse off the etching material and dry the tooth.
2. Sealant Application – After the prep work is finished, the hygienist will administer dental sealant material to the surface of the tooth with a brush, a self-curing light will then be used for about 30 seconds to secure the sealant to the tooth surface.
3. Dental Sealant Evaluation – At the conclusion, the dental hygienist and dentist will evaluate the dental sealant and ensure quality. Once the dental sealant has hardened it becomes a hard plastic coating, and you can chew on the tooth again.
Among our many services to keep your children’s teeth healthy and glistening, we offer dental sealants to help in the fight against cavities. We at Smile Reef, enjoy the gratification in preserving the little ones teeth into adulthood. Call us today to schedule your child’s next cleaning and dental sealant procedure to better protect your kids’ smile!
