The role of dental sealants in children’s oral health
A healthy smile is one of the most valuable gifts we can give our children. While daily brushing and regular dental checkups are essential pillars of oral hygiene, sometimes they’re not quite enough to prevent cavities—especially in those hard-to-reach back teeth. That’s where dental sealants come into play. These thin, protective coatings have proven to be a game-changer in preventive dental care, especially for children.
In this blog, we’ll delve into what dental sealants are, how they work, their benefits, ideal timing for application, and why families across North Carolina should consider them for their children’s oral health.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—namely the molars and premolars. These are the teeth most vulnerable to cavities because their surfaces have deep grooves and fissures that can trap food particles and harbor bacteria. Even with proper brushing, it’s easy to miss these areas.
Once applied, the sealant quickly bonds to the enamel, creating a smooth surface over the natural pits and fissures of the teeth. This barrier keeps out food debris and plaque, significantly reducing the risk of decay.
Why Are Children Especially Vulnerable?
Children’s teeth, especially newly erupted permanent molars, are more susceptible to cavities due to several reasons:
- Inconsistent brushing techniques: Young children may not yet have the dexterity to thoroughly clean all tooth surfaces.
- Diet high in sugars: Kids often consume more sugary snacks and drinks, increasing the risk of tooth decay.
- Deep grooves in molars: These natural indentations are perfect hiding spots for bacteria.
By sealing these vulnerable areas, parents can proactively help their children avoid painful cavities and the anxiety or cost associated with restorative dental treatments.
Benefits of Sealants
Despite regular brushing and flossing, certain foods can still lead to cavities. Dental sealants offer an added layer of protection, significantly reducing the risk of decay.
- Prevention of Cavities: According to the American Dental Association, dental sealants can reduce the risk of decay by nearly 80% in molars.
- Cost-Effective: Preventing cavities means avoiding more costly dental procedures like fillings, which are essential for long-term savings.
- Quick and Painless Application: The procedure to apply sealants is fast, comfortable, and non-invasive, making it ideal for children with dental anxieties.
- Long-Lasting Protection: With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, sealants can last for up to 5 to 10 years. Dentists will check them during routine checkups and can easily reapply them if necessary.
When Should Children Get Sealants?
Timing is everything when it comes to dental sealants. The ideal age to apply sealants is when the first permanent molars erupt—typically around age 6. The second set of molars usually appears between ages 11 and 14, and should be sealed as well. However, our practice also evaluates the needs of each child individually to determine the best timing and approach.
The Process: What to Expect
Applying dental sealants is a straightforward and child-friendly procedure. Here’s what typically happens during an appointment:
- Cleaning: The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to ensure no food or bacteria remain on the surface.
- Drying and Preparation: The tooth is dried and an acidic gel is applied to roughen the surface slightly. This helps the sealant bond better to the tooth.
- Rinsing and Drying Again: After a few seconds, the gel is rinsed off and the tooth is dried once more.
- Application: The sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel.
- Curing: A special blue light is used to harden the sealant, making it durable and ready to protect.
The entire process is quick, usually completed in one visit, and doesn’t require any anesthesia.
Conclusion
At our family dental practice, we’re committed to providing comprehensive dental care solutions tailored to your child’s needs. Dental sealants are a simple, effective way to protect their growing smiles. Schedule an appointment at one of our locations today to learn more about how sealants can safeguard your child’s oral health in North Carolina!
