Protect Little Smiles with Sealants
As parents, we do everything possible to keep our children healthy, including their teeth. Despite our best efforts to encourage good brushing and flossing habits, certain areas of the mouth can be tough for kids to clean thoroughly. Sealants provide an extra layer of protection, helping you keep your little one’s smile healthy and cavity-free with less stress.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants provide a simple yet powerful way to protect vulnerable teeth from cavities. These thin, protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars, where deep grooves and crevices make it easy for bacteria to hide. In fact, 90% of cavities form in these hard-to-clean areas on the back teeth. Sealants create a smooth, durable barrier that helps keep out food and bacteria, lowering the risk of decay.
The process of applying sealants is quick, painless, and non-invasive. After the dentist cleans and dries the tooth, a special gel is applied to prepare the surface. The gel is then rinsed off, and the tooth is dried again. Finally, the sealant is painted on and hardened with a curing light.
Why Are Sealants Important for Kids?
Cavities are incredibly common among children; by age 9, half of all kids have had at least one. During these early years, as children are still mastering proper brushing techniques, their teeth are especially vulnerable to decay. Dental sealants offer a simple, effective solution by preventing up to 80% of cavities on the back teeth. Yet only 43% of school-aged children receive dental sealants, leaving many young smiles at risk for preventable tooth decay. Introducing sealants early can be a game-changer for protecting your child’s dental health and setting them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth.
Are Sealants Safe?
Dental sealants are made from a safe, FDA-approved plastic material that has been used in dentistry for decades with excellent results. They are reliable, durable, and can last up to 10 years with proper care. Your child’s dentist will check the sealants during regular dental visits to ensure they are still intact and continue shielding the teeth from decay.
Tips for Maintaining Sealants and Preventing Cavities
Encourage Consistent Oral Hygiene: Even with sealants, brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily is essential for maintaining good dental health.
Keep Up with Regular Dental Visits: Routine check-ups allow the dentist to monitor sealants and reapply them if needed.
Limit Sugary Snacks & Drinks: Sticky and sugary foods can increase the risk of decay, even with sealants in place. Encourage water and tooth-friendly snacks like cheese, yogurt, and crunchy veggies.
Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Soft bristles clean teeth effectively without wearing down the sealants or harming the enamel.
Remind Kids to Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects: Biting on ice, pens, or hard candies can damage sealants and increase the risk of chipping.
A Simple Step for a Healthier Smile
Sealants are one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your child’s smile, but they are not a replacement for brushing and flossing. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental visits are still essential for a healthy smile. If you have questions about sealants or think your child might benefit from them, we are here to help. Call us today to learn more or to schedule your child’s next appointment!
