Prevent Childhood Tooth Decay With Dental Sealants
Tooth decay in preschoolers is becoming increasingly common, and it’s not just uncomfortable—it can also lead to more serious dental issues such as early tooth loss and childhood gum disease. One effective way to prevent cavities and tooth decay in young children is the use of dental sealants.
When combined with other preventive practices like biannual checkups and consistent home care, dental sealants can provide additional protection for your child’s teeth and help maintain a healthy, bright smile.
How Do Sealants Protect Children’s Teeth?
Dental sealants primarily protect the molars, which are the large, flat teeth located at the back of the mouth. These teeth often have deep grooves (pits and fissures) that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush, making them prone to decay-causing bacteria. In fact, molars are the site of four out of five cases of tooth decay in children.
Sealants act as a protective barrier, preventing bacteria and food particles from entering the grooves of the molars and causing damage. In some cases, if a child is at higher risk for tooth decay, the pediatric dentist may also apply sealants to other teeth, such as the bicuspid teeth.
While dental sealants don’t directly improve the health of the teeth, they are a useful preventive tool and a less costly, more aesthetically pleasing alternative to fillings. They should not replace fluoride treatments or other dental care practices.
How Are Sealants Applied?
Most dental sealants are made from liquid plastic that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the molars. The process is simple and painless:
- Preparation: The pediatric dentist will clean the teeth thoroughly.
- Application: Sealant is applied to the tooth’s grooves, usually in a bright pink color when wet to ensure full coverage.
- Hardening: The sealant is then hardened using a special light that cures the plastic, creating a clear or whitish, durable protective layer.
The entire procedure typically takes just one office visit and is completely painless.
When Should Sealants Be Applied?
Sealants are generally applied as soon as the primary (baby) molars emerge, and they can last for the life of the tooth, depending on the child’s oral habits. Permanent molars should be sealed as soon as they come in, and in some cases, the dentist may apply sealants even before the molars are fully grown.
Sealants are checked at each dental visit, and if needed, they are reapplied or touched up to ensure continued protection.
If you have any questions or concerns about dental sealants, or if you'd like to schedule an appointment, please contact Sky Pediatric Dentistry in Glasgow, KY. Call us today at 270-715-5437 to learn more about how we can help protect your child's smile.
New Patients & Emergency Appointments Welcome!
