Beaufort, Bluffton, and Hilton Head SC
Dental sealants are recommended for children with emerging or already emerged adult molars (back teeth). These teeth are notorious for developing cavities because children are less likely to brush their teeth properly. Cervices on the chewing surface of the back teeth are difficult to clean, and bacteria linger in these deep grooves. Therefore, sealants can help reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surface of these teeth.
What are dental sealants?
Sealants are tooth-colored, non-toxic, safe, and effective. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), sealants reduce a child’s risk of cavities by as much as 80%. We apply sealants to your child’s teeth during a checkup or cleaning appointment. The sealant material is viscous initially and then hardens as it bonds to the tooth.
How are sealants applied?
Sealants are most effective if applied right after a dental cleaning to remove oral bacteria before sealing the tooth. First, an etching solution is placed on your child’s back teeth. This solution mildly roughens the enamel just enough to help create a strong bond with the sealant. After we rinse the etching solution and dry the tooth, the dental hygienist applies the sealant material, a process that takes mere minutes. Using a special curing light, the material hardens, completing the application. No numbing agents are needed, no drilling, and no polishing afterward.
How long do sealants last?
Dental sealants are designed to last about 10 years. However, sometimes sealants may fall out, although they can be replaced at your child’s next dental visit. At each six-month checkup, we examine the sealants to ensure they are intact and not leaking or loose. It is not uncommon for sealants to wear away naturally from eating and chewing.
How should my child care for their sealants?
Caring for dental sealants does not require anything special, just regular brushing and flossing like your other teeth. Instruct your child to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste, and floss once a day. Your child can eat and drink as usual, although we recommend avoiding chewy candy like caramels and taffy, as they could dislodge or completely remove the sealants.
Benefits of Sealants
As a parent, you want the best for your children, especially when it comes to their health and their teeth.
Getting sealants for your child provides several benefits, including:
- Helps reduce tooth decay
- Applying sealants is quick and easy
- Experience improved oral hygiene
- Sealants are safe and non-toxic
- Sealants cost less than fillings
Why wait and react to your child’s dental health needs when you can take simple preventive measures now? Dental sealants are one of the best ways to help protect your child’s oral health. However, sealants may not be for everyone. Sealants should not be applied to teeth with decay, or that already have dental fillings.
Pediatric Dentist in Beaufort, Bluffton, and Hilton Head
At Chris Mohler, DDS, we invite patients of all ages to experience the difference in our leading-edge dental practice. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional care and helping educate patients on oral health best practices. If you would like to learn more about our pediatric dental services or to schedule an appointment, please call Chris Mohler, DDS, at (843) 522-1442 or complete our Contact Form.