A Simple Way to Prevent Cavities in Children
Dental sealants are clear coatings applied to the surfaces of a child’s molars to prevent the development of tooth decay. They work by preventing food and plaque from resting in the grooves and crevices of molars – an area especially susceptible to cavities. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, nearly 1 in 3 U.S. children ages 6 to 12 currently have sealants on their teeth.
Did you know…
that sealants can last as long as 5 to 10 years in pediatric dental patients? Depending on a child’s oral development and risk factors for tooth decay, sealants may be applied to the teeth as young as age 6. It is at this time that the first molars typically appear. Additional molars erupt at approximately age 12. If possible, sealants should be applied to a child’s teeth immediately after any molar has appeared to reduce the risk of early decay.
How Sealants Help Prevent Cavities
Dental sealants are one of the most effective preventive treatments for children’s teeth. Some of the key benefits include:
- Cavity Protection: Sealants create a barrier that shields molars from food particles and harmful bacteria.
- Early Prevention: Applying sealants soon after molars erupt helps protect teeth before decay can begin.
- Long-Lasting Defense: With proper care, sealants can last for many years, reducing the need for fillings.
- Cost-Effective Care: Preventing cavities early often means avoiding more complex and expensive dental treatments later.
- Peace of Mind for Parents: Parents can feel confident that their child’s teeth are better protected during cavity-prone years.
How Dental Sealants Are Applied
Applying dental sealants is a quick and painless procedure that can usually be completed in just one visit. First, the dentist cleans and dries the child’s molars thoroughly. A special solution is then applied to the chewing surfaces to help the sealant bond properly. Next, the sealant material is painted into the grooves of the molars and hardened with a curing light. Once complete, the child can eat and drink normally right away, with the added protection against cavities in place.