When it comes to protecting your child’s oral health, dental sealants might be a key recommendation during their next visit to our office. Sealants play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay, particularly on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Understanding their benefits can help you make the best decision for your child’s dental care.
Why Are Sealants Important?
Dental sealants are a proven method to prevent tooth decay. They are primarily applied to the molars, which are more prone to decay due to their deep grooves. Although sealants are often recommended for children and teenagers, adults can also benefit from this preventive measure.
The molars, located at the back of the mouth, have intricate grooves that are difficult to clean thoroughly. Sealants can reduce decay by up to 80% in the first two years and continue to offer significant protection, with about half of all decay being prevented after four years. Without sealants, a child’s risk of developing tooth decay is three times higher compared to those with sealants.
Ideal Timing for Sealant Application
Sealants are most effective when applied as soon as the first set of molars erupts around age six and the second set around age twelve. The optimal time for sealant application is shortly after these molars break through the gum line. Your dentist at Contemporary Dentistry of Centreville will determine the best time to apply sealants during your child’s regular dental check-up.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Applying sealants is a routine and straightforward procedure at our practice. The process is generally painless. First, your child’s teeth will be cleaned and treated with a special gel. Once the gel is rinsed off, the sealant is applied and hardened using a small blue curing light in just seconds.
Addressing Concerns About Sealants
Sealants are safe and have minimal risk of side effects or allergic reactions. If your child has any allergies, be sure to inform our team so we can tailor the approach to suit their needs.
Maintaining Sealants
When properly applied and maintained, sealants can last for many years before needing replacement. Regular dental visits are essential to ensure the sealants and overall oral health remain in top condition. If it’s been a while since your child’s sealants were applied, scheduling an appointment with your dentist at Contemporary Dentistry of Centreville can help assess if a replacement is needed.
For more information about how dental sealants can benefit your child’s oral health, or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at Contemporary Dentistry of Centreville. We look forward to assisting you!