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Tooth decay is an increasingly common problem in preschool-aged children. Beyond the discomfort and pain, it can lead to more serious issues like premature loss of baby teeth and childhood gum disease.
Dental sealants are a significant tool in the prevention of childhood cavities and tooth decay.Especially when used alongside other preventative measures, such as biannual dental exams and a consistent daily home care routine, sealants can enhance the mouth's natural defenses and help keep smiles healthy.
How do sealants protect children’s teeth?
In general, dental sealants are applied to protect molars from oral bacteria and harmful acids.These larger, flatter teeth are located towards the back of the mouth and can be difficult for children to clean effectively. Molars are the most common site for tooth decay, accounting for about four out of every five cavities. Decay-causing bacteria often reside in the tiny grooves and pits on the chewing surfaces of molars, areas that are hard to reach with a regular toothbrush.
If the pediatric dentist assesses a child as being at high risk for tooth decay, they may decide to seal additional teeth, such as premolars (bicuspids). The sealant acts as a protective barrier, preventing food particles and oral bacteria from reaching the vulnerable tooth enamel.
It's important to remember that dental sealants do not directly improve tooth health and should not replace fluoride supplements (if recommended by the dentist) or overall good oral hygiene. However, sealants are generally less expensive, more comfortable, and more aesthetically pleasing than dental fillings.
How are sealants applied?
While there are various types of dental sealants, most are made of liquid plastic. First, the pediatric dentist will thoroughly clean and prepare the molars before painting the sealant onto the targeted teeth. Some sealants are brightly colored (pink) when wet, making it easy for the dentist to see complete coverage of all grooves and pits, and then turn clear as they dry.
Once each targeted tooth is coated to the dentist's satisfaction, the sealant is either allowed to harden on its own or exposed to a blue spectrum light for a few seconds (depending on the specific brand's chemical composition). This special light helps to harden and cure the plastic sealant. The final result is a thin, hard, durable layer of clear (or whitish) sealant.
It's worth noting that the "sealing" procedure is typically quick and painless, usually completed in a single office visit.
When should sealants be applied?
Sealants are usually applied as soon as the primary (baby) molars fully erupt. Depending on the child's oral habits, the sealants may last for the entire lifespan of the primary tooth or may need to be reapplied several times. Essentially, how long sealants last depends on the individual child's oral hygiene practices.
Pediatric dentists recommend that permanent molars be sealed as soon as they fully emerge. In some cases, sealant can be applied even before the permanent molar is completely grown.
Sealants are checked during each regular dental checkup and are reapplied or "touched up" as needed.
If you have any questions or concerns about dental sealants, please contact your pediatric dentist.
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