Instilling brushing and flossing habits in your child is crucial to protect their smile, but there’s more that can be done in the battle against tooth decay. After all, it’s the most common chronic disease affecting American children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Fortunately, pediatric dentists can recommend dental sealants for children at higher risk for cavities. Even if your child brushes and flosses every day, they could be leaving behind plaque on back teeth where it’s hard to reach. A tooth sealant covers the fissures and pits on the chewing surface, so plaque doesn’t have a place to hide. Learn more about the benefits of dental sealants from a pediatric dentist in Garland.
Prevent a Mouthful of Cavities
Tooth decay is a common issue seen in young patients. Fortunately, your child’s pediatric dentist can prevent most cavities with dental sealants. A tooth sealant covers the surface of their molar, so it doesn’t collect food particles and plaque.
Dental sealants help reduce the risk of tooth decay in the long run by providing an extra layer of protection between your child’s teeth and everything that can cause tooth decay. Plaque is an invisible film of bacteria that builds up on their teeth. Plaque feeds on sugar and starch left behind on your child’s teeth before producing acids that erode enamel.
It’s important that you schedule routine teeth cleaning and oral examination for your little one every six months so their dentist can remove plaque buildup and monitor oral health. Otherwise, it can lead to tooth decay and even gum disease.
Dental sealants fall under the category of preventative dentistry. Restorative dentistry is important because when problems happen, they need to be fixed. Preventative dentistry is always preferred if possible because it’s better to avoid a problem than have to react to it.
Avoid Dental Fillings
No one likes the sound of a dental drill, especially when it’s meant for them. Fortunately, dental sealants are designed to prevent plaque buildup on back teeth. That way, your child can get a clean bill of health during their next appointment.
To place a dental filling, decayed tooth matter must be removed. Your child’s dentist would then restore the tooth with a cavity filling made from composite resin. In contrast, the procedure to apply dental sealants is noninvasive.
First, the dentist would need to clean and roughen the surface of your child’s tooth. Next, they would paint the sealant onto the surface. Dental sealants can last several years, some even surviving into adulthood.
Maintain a Beautiful, Healthy Smile
Dentists want to help kids build a strong foundation for oral health. For this reason, they may recommend dental sealants if they decide your child is prone to tooth decay. Other ways to protect their oral health include enforcing brushing and scheduling their appointments every six months.
Dental sealants are best for patients who have deep pits and divots in their back teeth. Recent studies have even hinted at a connection between genetics and a person’s susceptibility to tooth decay. Fortunately, your child’s dentist can use dental sealants to prevent future cavities from forming.
When your children are still growing and learning, they still need your help to watch over their teeth. Dental sealants in Garland provide you with another valuable tool to help ensure your little one’s grin remains in great shape!
About the Practice
At The Dental Specialists Pediatric Dentistry, we have dental exam rooms that are kid and parent-friendly with Wi-Fi, toys and games, a coffee bar, TVs, and more. As the pediatric dentist in Garland that you can count on, we offer a vast array of services, plus we have an in-office anesthesiologist. We offer dental sealants that can last for many years, plus the treatment is simple and relatively pain-free. Ask for details at your child’s next checkup and cleaning which you can schedule on our website or call (972) 364-7472.