Dental Sealants for Kids | What Are They | How Long to Apply  

Are you worried about your child’s oral health? As a parent, it’s only natural to want what’s best for your little one. Brushing and flossing are great ways to prevent cavities; however, it’s not enough, especially when your child has a sweet tooth. Therefore, it’s best to take extra measures to help your child with their oral health, such as dental sealants. Read to learn more about dental sealants & find out if it is the right option for your child.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted on your child’s teeth. Sealants protect chewing surfaces from cavities by covering them and preventing bacteria or food particles from building up.

How Do Dental Sealants For Kids Work?

The grooves and pits in teeth can be difficult to clean, especially for children. Over time these tough-to-reach spots can build up plaque and cause a small hole, also known as a cavity. With dental sealants for kids, all these grooves and pits in your child’s teeth are protected. They act as an extra layer of protection for all the pits of your child’s teeth and create a smooth surface, ensuring your little one’s teeth are safe and cavity-free

How Are Dental Sealants Applied?

Dental sealants are a quick and pain-free procedure, as there’s no need for drilling or numbing. The following is a brief overview of the treatment.

• A proper examination and cleaning of your child’s teeth
• Drying the tooth and placing a barrier between the tongue and cheeks so the saliva doesn’t touch the teeth.
• An etching solution is applied to the surface of the tooth to disinfect and prepare the tooth.
• Painting a thin bonding layer and applying the sealant directly onto the surface of your child’s tooth, covering the enamel.
• An LED blue light will help to “cure” the sealant to make the process faster.
• Once the sealant hardens, the process is complete.
• Each tooth takes about one minute, and your child can quickly get back to their daily functions.

With dental sealants, there are no restrictions, your child can eat and drink right away. If your child has an active tongue or sensitive gag reflex, the application process may be a bit more tricky.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Dental sealants for kids can last up to 7 years or more, depending on their maintenance. Dental sealants are easy to care for, and with regular dental checkups, the dentist can check the sealants for any cracks. If there’s any damage the dentist can replace them easily and quickly.

When Should Your Child Get Dental Sealants?

Experts recommend dental sealants for kids by the age of 6 when your child’s first molars break through. It is best to get dental sealants as soon as your child’s teeth come through to protect them from cavities and decay.

Benefits Of Dental Sealants

• Dental sealants are suitable for all ages, and anyone can avail of their benefits. If you or your child has small grooves that need protection from bacteria, you can get dental sealants.
• Dental sealants protect teeth from cavities and plaque build-up by covering the molars.
• The application of dental sealants is simple, quick, pain-free, and non-invasive.
• It also reduces deep grooves in molars and makes it easier to remove food particles and bacteria.
• Sealants are also long-lasting, and with proper care, they can help your child during their cavity-prone years.
• Also, dental sealants for kids are a great investment for your child’s oral health as they last long and prevent major oral issues.

Protect Your Child’s Teeth With Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a great way to prevent cavities and other oral issues. If you want your child to achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile, make sure you visit the pediatric dentist in Wichita Falls.