Dental Sealants: Protect Your Child’s Teeth from Decay

Welcome to Pediatric Dentistry of San Angelo, where we focus on preventive care to ensure your child’s dental health remains at its best. Dental sealants are a quick, effective way to protect your child's teeth from decay, particularly the molars, which are most susceptible to cavities due to their hard-to-clean surfaces.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). This coating is made of a safe, durable plastic that bonds into the depressions and grooves of the teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth.

Why Should Your Child Get Dental Sealants?

• Cavity Prevention: Sealants keep out food particles and bacteria that contribute to tooth decay by providing a smooth covering over the pits and fissures of the teeth.
• Long-Term Benefits: Sealants can effectively protect teeth for many years under the force of normal chewing and can be reapplied if necessary.
• Cost-Effective: By preventing cavities and the need for fillings or crowns, sealants save money in the long run.

The Process of Applying Dental Sealants

The application of dental sealants is a quick, painless process that can be completed in just one visit:

1. Cleaning: The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to ensure the sealant adheres properly.
2. Preparation: A solution is applied to the chewing surfaces to help the sealant bond to the teeth.
3. Application: The sealant is then painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly and hardens. Sometimes a special curing light is used to help the sealant harden.

Are Dental Sealants Safe?

Dental sealants are safe and effective. They have been used and studied for over four decades and are endorsed by numerous health organizations, including the American Dental Association. The materials used are BPA-free and designed to withstand the normal wear and tear of daily chewing.

How to Care for Teeth with Sealants

Caring for sealants is straightforward:

• Regular Dental Hygiene: Continue brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Sealants increase protection but do not replace good oral hygiene habits.
• Regular Check-Ups: During your child’s regular dental visits, the integrity of the sealants will be checked, and reapplication can be done if necessary.