DENTAL SEALANTS: PREVENTION POWER!

Used in conjunction with brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups, the value of Dental Sealants has increased over the past few decades. As a barrier to tooth decay, sealants are applied to the grooves of teeth, specifically premolars and molars, where bacteria tend to settle. In adolescence, when children are learning and developing proper oral care habits, sealants give prevention power to pediatric dental plans, helping ward off early cavities.

What To Expect

Dental Sealants are usually applied to permanent teeth soon after they erupt. For many children, this is around age 6. Placing the sealant is a simple and painless, in-office procedure. If the dentist has recommended sealants for your child, here’s what to expect:

To begin, the dentist or dental hygienist will clean your child’s teeth, removing any plaque and food debris from the surface. To prepare the tooth, the surface will be etched or carved. This allows the sealant material to “seal” properly.

Next, the sealant material is painted on the surface of the tooth with a dental brush, and dried with a curing light. The sealant fills the depressions of the tooth and hardens quickly. The dentist will examine the sealant, making sure that it has set properly.

Stay In The Know

When it comes to your child’s oral health, it’s important to stay “in the know” about their treatment and it’s effectiveness. While sealants provide invaluable protection against decay on the biting surfaces of teeth, poor oral hygiene may cause sealants to break down. In the same way, sealants do not protect against gum disease, such as gingivitis. Thus, in regards to dental sealants, the bottom line is—they are effective when paired with a comprehensive dental plan that includes the patient, parents, and dentist.

Vital Smiles welcomes you to our office, where we focus on building trust in warm, comfortable atmosphere. Our team is dedicated to providing quality dental care that is affordable and available to all. We accept many insurance plans, including Medicaid. Do you have questions about dental sealants? Call Vital Smiles today.

Posted on behalf of Vital Smiles