Dr. Mathew and the team at Summit Pediatric Dentistry believe in the power of prevention for a child’s oral health. As part of our pediatric dental services, we offer dental sealants to provide an extra layer of protection against cavities in hard-to-reach areas.
One of the most effective ways to protect your child’s teeth from cavities is with dental sealants on permanent back teeth, or molars. This simple and painless procedure can keep your child’s teeth healthy and free from decay as they grow.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings Dr. Moncy Mathew places on the chewing surfaces of your child’s molars and premolars. These teeth have deep grooves and crevices in the cusp that can trap food and bacteria. They’re much more prone to cavities than other teeth. Sealants fill in these grooves to create a smoother surface, makes it easier to clean teeth, and lowers the risk of decay.
Sealants are typically applied after teeth erupt, usually around the age of 6 or 7. For older children and teens, sealants can be applied to any remaining molars that are prone to cavities.
How The Dentist Applies Dental Sealants
The process of applying dental sealants is quick and simple. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
- Cleaning the Teeth: Dr. Mathew will clean your child’s teeth to remove plaque and debris. This will help the sealant bond properly.
- Applying the Sealant: The sealant material is painted onto the chewing surface of the teeth. Then, a special light will harden it.
- Final Check: After the sealant is applied, Dr. Mathew will check that we coated every surface. He will also make sure your child’s bite is not affected.
The entire process takes just a few minutes, and it’s painless. Sealants are completely safe for children and can last for several years with regular brushing.
Why Get Sealants? The Super-Shield for Teeth
Think of dental sealants like a raincoat for your teeth. Even if you brush really well, it’s hard to get a toothbrush bristle into the deep grooves of your back molars. Food and cavity-causing bacteria can get stuck in these tiny trenches, and cause decay.
A sealant acts as that waterproof layer. It smoothly coats the grooves and creates a barrier that shields the tooth enamel from plaque and acid. It’s one of the most effective and affordable ways to prevent cavities. Working alongside fluoride and good brushing, sealants give your child’s smile the best possible defense.
Sealants can also be a great idea for teenagers who have deep grooves in their newer permanent teeth and are at a higher risk for cavities. Even some adults who have cavity-prone teeth without existing fillings can get them.
Dr. Mathew will evaluate your child’s specific teeth during their check-up to decide if and when sealants are the right choice for them.
Caring for Sealants: Making Them Last
Taking care of dental sealants is easy and doesn’t need a special routine or products. Your child should continue to brush their teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. The sealants are on the chewing surfaces, so you still need to clean the sides and in-between areas of the teeth.
It’s also important to avoid chewing on extremely hard objects, because it can cause the sealant to chip. During your child’s regular dental check-ups at our Lee’s Summit office, Dr. Mathew will check the sealants for any wear and tear. He can easily reapply them if needed to ensure they keep working for years.
Are Sealants Safe and Effective?
Dental sealants are absolutely safe and are a trusted part of preventive dentistry. The sealant material is completely safe and BPA-free. According to the CDC, sealants can prevent 80% of cavities in the back teeth, where 9 out of 10 cavities occur. By protecting the chewing surfaces, sealants significantly reduce the risk of your child having tooth pain and the need for fillings or other procedures. This simple, quick appointment is a powerful investment in your child’s long-term oral health.
Give Your Child a Cavity-Fighting Advantage
Dental sealants are a simple and painless way to give your child’s smile an extra layer of protection. The team at Summit Pediatric Dentistry is here to answer your questions and help you decide if sealants are right for your child. Schedule an appointment online with Dr. Mathew, or call our Lee’s Summit, MO office today at 816-375-4539.