When it comes to safeguarding your child’s oral health, one simple treatment can make a significant difference – dental sealants. At Decatur Family Dentistry, serving the Decatur community, our experienced dentist may recommend dental sealants during your child’s visit to our office. Understanding this preventive measure and its benefits is crucial for maintaining your child’s healthy smile.
Why Get Sealants?
Dental sealants act as a protective barrier against tooth decay, particularly on the back teeth, where cavities are most likely to develop. While children and teens are commonly recommended for sealants, adults can also benefit from this treatment. The intricate grooves and fissures of molars make them challenging to clean thoroughly, making them prone to decay. Sealants can prevent up to 80% of decay within the first two years and continue to offer significant protection even after four years. Studies have shown that children without sealants are more than three times as likely to develop tooth decay compared to those with sealants.
When Should You Get Them?
Typically, your child’s first set of molars erupts around age 6, followed by the second set around age 12. It’s essential to discuss with our dentist the optimal timing for applying sealants to keep molars healthy. Sealants are most effective when applied soon after the molars emerge. Regular dental examinations with our dentist will help determine the ideal timing for sealant application.
What Should I Expect?
The process of applying sealants is straightforward and painless. Our dental team will begin by thoroughly cleaning your child’s teeth. Then, a special gel is applied to prepare the teeth for sealant application. Once the gel is rinsed off, the sealant is applied and hardened using a small blue light. The entire procedure is quick and comfortable, ensuring a positive experience for your child.
What Concerns Should I Have?
Sealants are considered safe, and allergic reactions are exceptionally rare. However, if your child has any known allergies, it’s crucial to inform our dentist beforehand to discuss suitable options.
Next Steps
Sealants can last for several years before requiring reapplication. It’s essential to schedule regular dental check-ups at our office so that our dentist can assess the condition of the sealants and teeth periodically. If it’s been several years since your child had sealants applied, or if you’re unsure whether they need to be reapplied, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us for evaluation.
For more tips on maintaining healthy teeth and answers to your questions about dental sealants, contact Decatur Family Dentistry today. Your child’s dental health is our top priority, and we’re here to help them achieve a lifetime of healthy smiles.