Dental sealants are plastic coatings that are bonded to the surfaces of your child’s teeth to protect them from cavities and to make them easier to clean. It’s recommended that you place dental sealants at ages 6 and 12 when the first and second permanent molars come through.
These teeth in particular have significant pits and grooves compared to the rest of your child’s teeth. While this helps you chew your food, it isn’t ideal for keeping them clean. Food particles and bacteria can become trapped in these grooves and because there isn’t a smooth surface, it can be difficult to thoroughly brush them away.
Dental sealants work in two ways: they seal out harmful substances like acids, plaque, and food particles that contribute to cavities, and they also provide a smooth surface for your child to clean these teeth. Contact us at Mission Peak Pediatric Dentistry to schedule a consultation.
Dr. Wang will need to examine your child’s teeth during a consultation to ensure that they don’t have active tooth decay or other oral health problems. He will also determine what teeth should receive sealants based on their age and cavity risk.
Dental sealants are a very effective defense mechanism against cavities during an age when children are at high risk for developing tooth decay. In the first 2 years of placement, sealants offer 80% protection against cavities.
Within 4 years of placement, the defense is still 50% protection against cavity development. In addition to leading a healthy lifestyle and practicing good oral hygiene, this can prevent serious oral health problems that require more invasive and costly treatment later on.
Dental sealants are a convenient way to protect your child’s teeth because they’re affordable, non-invasive, painless, and last for up to 10 years. The application process takes hardly any time at all but is a great investment in the long term.
