At South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics, we understand the need for parents to take care of their kid’s teeth. Making sure your kids have clean teeth gives them confidence and boosts their overall health, setting them up for adulthood with good habits.
One of the best ways for parents to make sure their kid’s teeth are protected is with dental sealants. We offer dental sealants as a preventative option to help our younger patients avoid cavities. Dental sealants are a great way to make sure bacteria stay out of the most vulnerable places in our teeth.
WHAT ARE DENTAL SEALANTS?
When a child gets a cavity, they typically occur in the back teeth. The back teeth are the most common areas for cavities to develop since these teeth have small grooves that can trap food particles and bacteria. Sealants are plastic resin coatings that are placed on the chewing surface of the back teeth. The molars and premolars are very rough and prone to decay and cavities, so dental sealants are used to protect them during childhood. These sealants can last for years, giving long-lasting protection. By the time sealants are gone, the teeth will be more resistant to decay as the hard enamel becomes stronger with age.
WHAT TYPES OF DENTAL SEALANTS ARE THERE?
- Composite resin
- Polyacid-modified resins
- Resin-modified glass ionomers
- Glass ionomer
Although there are multiple types of dental sealants, the most common is the composite tooth-colored resin sealants. These blend in naturally with your teeth and are very durable under normal wear.
HOW ARE DENTAL SEALANTS PLACED?
The placement of dental sealants requires an in-office procedure that only takes a few minutes. Our dental team at South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics are experts in dental sealants and pediatric care, so we can help your child feel relaxed and comfortable during this quick treatment.
Dental sealants are similar to a mini plastic filling that is placed on the surface of the tooth. The placement of sealants is completely painless since the enamel does not contain any nerves. First, your dentist will clean the tooth to prepare it for the placement. Once the tooth is clean, it will be dried. An etching solution will be applied to make sure the sealant material adheres to the tooth. After etching and rinsing, the liquid sealant is applied. The sealant only takes a few minutes to dry, and a dental curing light will be used to speed along the drying process. Once the sealant is placed, the teeth are protected.
WHY DO I NEED DENTAL SEALANTS?
The main reasons for choosing dental sealants are protection and prevention. Children and adolescents often get dental sealants because their teeth are more susceptible to contracting bacteria and cavities. Dental sealants add a protective layer which prevents bacteria from getting into the fissures of the teeth and causing decay.
ARE YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR DENTAL SEALANTS?
Dental sealants are an ideal treatment for anyone who wants to prevent cavities or decay. Although they are mainly performed on children and adolescents, adults can be eligible for dental sealants as well. Even if you already have cavities, dental sealants can be placed after the decay is removed to prevent any further damage!
To know if dental sealants are the right option for you or your child, speak with one of our highly-trained dental staff here at South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics. The dental team will perform a comprehensive examination of your teeth to determine if dental sealants can help.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
If you would like to learn more about dental sealants and how they can help protect your child’s teeth, contact us today! Our dental team is passionate about protecting you and your family’s oral and overall health, and dental sealants are one effective option. To make an appointment, call the office or fill out an online form.