Children should learn the importance of proper oral care at a young age. They should know the correct brushing and flossing techniques to prevent severe dental problems in the future. As parents and caregivers, you can help your children develop healthy gums and teeth by providing regular dental care.
At Tod Anderson DDS, in Los Gatos, California, we offer dental sealants as an additional preventive measure to protect children from tooth decay and cavities. Sealant applications are quick, effective, and painless treatments.
What Is a Dental Sealant?
A dental sealant is a defensive barrier that is applied over teeth. When you consume foods and drinks, bacteria and food debris will accumulate into pockets and grooves in the top of your teeth. Flossing and brushing could remove these harmful elements that cause plaque and cavities. But at times, it may not be sufficient to clean the molar teeth.
A dental sealant acts as a protective shield between teeth and harmful acids. They can typically last for up to ten years or more, making this shield a brilliant preventive measure when it comes to your kid's dental health.
Why Should Your Child Get a Dental Sealant?
According to recent studies, dental sealants can help prevent 80 percent of cavities for up to two years after application. The possibility of children developing cavities gets significantly reduced with the application of sealants.Â
Dental sealants are recommended for your children after all of their permanent teeth have emerged. In extraordinary cases, a dental sealant can be applied to a child's primary teeth. But usually, the sealant is applied during cavity-prone years, ages 6 to 14.Â
Procedure for Applying a Dental Sealant
A dental sealant application procedure requires minimal time, and it is an entirely safe and painless treatment. First, the teeth are gently cleaned and then dried thoroughly with cotton material to remove any moisture. Then, we will apply an acid solution to the surface of your child's teeth to create a rough, textured surface. The roughening of the surface enables the sealant to bond to the teeth better. After that, the teeth are rinsed and dried again.Â
Finally, the dental sealant is painted in layers to all the teeth, immediately binding and hardening. Sometimes a unique light is used to cure the treatment, making sure it sets quickly and thoroughly.
If you want to know more about dental sealants for children, visit Tod Anderson DDS, at 14475 S Bascom Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95032, or call us at (408) 540-7813 and schedule an appointment.
