What are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic, protective coatings painted over teeth. They protect teeth from the effects of dental plaque, such as tooth decay. These procedures are easy, and painless. Sealants are suitable for kids between the ages of 6-16.
Why Does Your Child Need Dental Sealants?
When we eat or drink, tiny bits of starch and sugar stick around in our mouths. They team up with oral bacteria and acids, forming something called plaque. This plaque’s acids can wear away our tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
Molars and premolars have grooves that help us chew food. But when we brush our teeth, it’s hard to get rid of all the bacteria and food bits from these grooves. That’s where sealants come in. They’re like a protective shield for our teeth. They cover the tooth surface and fill in the gaps between teeth, preventing bacteria and plaque from causing problems.
Dental Sealant Procedure
1) Use a polishing brush and gritty toothpaste to clean the teeth. These remove bacteria and plaque from the kid’s teeth.
2) Dry the teeth and keep them dry from saliva using cotton or a cheek shield.
3) Prepare the teeth for the sealant by applying a solution to them. It disinfects the teeth and roughens them for easy bonding with the sealant.
4) Rinse off the solution and dry these teeth again.
5) Apply a bonding layer over the teeth followed by the dental sealant.
6) Use a LED light to harden the liquid sealant.
Who Should Get Sealants?
Children start having their permanent teeth around age six. The molars and premolars continue erupting into their late teens. Your child may not maintain proper oral hygiene, increasing the risk of decay. The sealants protect your child’s teeth as they develop throughout the years.
As a result, they prevent infections and oral health problems from affecting kids. Besides, the materials can last for up to ten years with proper care and maintenance. Therefore, your child’s teeth remain protected until they can practice good dental hygiene.