A family dentist may have suggested getting dental sealants during your last appointment. With tooth decay being the most common oral issue in children between the ages of six and 19, according to the CDC, dental sealants provide extra protection for the teeth to prevent its occurrence and resulting dental problems. This article explains why dental sealants are an excellent option to consider.
Cavities do not develop overnight — they are the result of gradual tooth erosion. The bacteria present in the mouth feast on the sugar present in food particles. This process generates acids that cause the gradual deterioration of the enamel.
Early cavity prevention is paramount. Cavities in baby teeth can cause premature tooth loss, cavities in permanent teeth, and other oral issues. Preventing cavities before they happen is important, which is where dental sealants come in.
Dental sealants are a protective covering made from plastic material and bonded to the chewing surface of the teeth by a dentist. They cover and protect the back teeth used for grinding (molars and premolars) so that bacteria and food particles do not get trapped in the grooves and crevices. Sealants fill the deep grooves of the teeth that are usually hard to clean properly when brushing.
Although they are not designed as a substitute for good oral hygiene practices, they provide better protection against issues such as tooth decay and infections. Children are usually more vulnerable to cavities, so the extra protection offered by dental sealants is sometimes necessary to reduce the occurrence.
To complement brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash, a family dentist might also recommend dental sealants for children who still have their primary teeth, especially if the dentist thinks they are more susceptible to cavities. Many parents erroneously assume that protecting the primary teeth is not necessary since they will eventually fall out. Nevertheless, maintaining proper oral health at this early stage helps to ensure that the adult teeth erupt in good condition and proper alignment.
The American Dental Association recommends sealants for kids between ages five and 14, which is when the first molars typically start erupting. Another application can be done when another set of molars comes in, often between ages 11 and 14. The procedure is also an excellent preventive care measure for teenagers that are prone to cavities.
As mentioned earlier, dental sealants are not meant to be a substitute for proper oral hygiene. Parents should guide their children in the right ways to care for the teeth, including brushing and flossing at least twice a day. It is also important to limit foods and drinks with high sugar content to reduce the occurrence of cavities. Regular appointments with a family dentist can help kids learn the essence of good oral care.
To learn more about dental sealants and why a family dentist recommends this preventive treatment, get in touch with our dental office today to schedule a consultation visit.
Request an appointment here: https://shdentalva.com or call Safe Harbor Dental at (757) 333-0087 for an appointment in our Chesapeake office.
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