The Importance of Sealants and How They Can Protect Children’s Teeth

Ensuring your child’s oral health is a top priority for any parent. Dental sealants are an effective and straightforward solution among the various preventive measures. At Smiling Kids Pediatric Dentistry Noblesville, Dr. Sam Bullard emphasizes the importance of sealants in safeguarding children’s teeth from cavities and decay. Let’s delve into how sealants work and why they are critical to pediatric dental care.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars and premolars). These teeth are more prone to cavities due to their deep grooves and pits, where food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped. Sealants act as a barrier, protecting these vulnerable areas from plaque and acids.

How Are Sealants Applied?

Applying dental sealants is a quick and painless process, making it an ideal procedure for children. Here’s how it works:

1. Cleaning the Teeth: The dentist will thoroughly clean the teeth to ensure no food particles or plaque are present.
2. Preparing the Surface: An acidic solution is applied to the chewing surfaces to roughen them up, helping the sealant adhere better.
3. Applying the Sealant: The sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly and hardens. Sometimes, a special curing light speeds up the hardening process.

Benefits of Dental Sealants

• Preventing Cavities: Sealants’ primary benefit is their ability to prevent cavities. By covering the grooves and pits of molars, sealants create a smooth surface that’s easier to clean, reducing the risk of decay.
• Cost-Effective Preventive Measure: Sealants are far less expensive than treating cavities. Sealants can save parents money in the long run by avoiding the need for fillings, crowns, or other dental restorations.
• Quick and Painless: Applying sealants is a non-invasive procedure that takes only a few minutes per tooth. There’s no need for drilling or anesthesia, making it a stress-free experience for children.
• Long-Lasting Protection: With proper care, sealants can last several years, providing long-term protection during the most cavity-prone years of a child’s life.

When Should Children Get Sealants?

Children should get sealants on their permanent molars as soon as they come in, typically around age 6 for the first molars and age 12 for the second molars. However, some dentists may also recommend sealants for primary (baby) teeth if the child is at high risk for cavities.

Are Sealants Safe?

Yes, dental sealants are safe. They are made from biocompatible materials and have been used in dentistry for decades. Manufacturers have addressed concerns about the presence of BPA (Bisphenol A) in sealants, and the levels of BPA in sealants are extremely low and considered safe.

How to Care for Teeth with Sealants

Caring for teeth with sealants is straightforward and involves the same routine as caring for teeth without sealants:

• Brush Twice Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your child’s teeth twice a day.
• Floss Daily: Help your child floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule regular check-ups with Dr. Sam Bullard to ensure the sealants are intact and the teeth remain healthy.
• Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Encourage a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and beverages that can contribute to decay.

Why Choose Smiling Kids Pediatric Dentistry in Noblesville?

Smiling Kids Pediatric Dentistry, Noblesville prioritizes preventive care to ensure your child’s teeth stay healthy and strong. Dr. Sam Bullard and our team are dedicated to providing children a comfortable and welcoming environment, making dental visits a positive experience. Our expertise in pediatric dentistry ensures that your child receives the best possible care tailored to their needs.

Dental sealants are a simple yet highly effective way to protect your child’s teeth from cavities and decay. By investing in sealants, you’re taking a proactive step in maintaining your child’s oral health and preventing potential dental issues. At Smiling Kids Pediatric Dentistry Noblesville, we’re here to support you and your child on the journey to a lifetime of healthy smiles.