What we do
Dental Sealants
Offices in Spokane Valley & Airway Heights, WA
The Importance of Dental Sealants for Your Children's Teeth
Dental sealants play a crucial role in safeguarding your children’s teeth and promoting long-term oral health. These thin protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, creating a barrier against harmful bacteria and acids that cause tooth decay. As children are often prone to cavities due to their developing dental hygiene habits, sealants act as a preventive measure by effectively sealing off the vulnerable grooves and crevices in their teeth. Not only do they offer added protection, but dental sealants also save parents from potential future dental expenses.
It’s important to remember that even with primary teeth, you still need to make sure that your kids’ teeth and gums are healthy, even though they are temporary. The health of your kids’ primary teeth lays the foundation for the health of their adult teeth.
How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
Applying dental sealants is straightforward and painless. At KidSmile, our dentists will talk through the process, which typically follows these steps:
- First, we thoroughly clean and dry the teeth to be sealed.
- Next, a gentle acidic solution is applied to roughen the tooth’s surface, allowing the sealant to adhere effectively.
- Once the teeth are rinsed and dried again, we carefully paints the sealant onto the grooves and fissures of the molars and premolars.
- A curing light may be used to help the sealant harden quickly.
The entire process typically takes only a few minutes per tooth, and children can resume their regular activities immediately after. With this quick and non-invasive method, dental sealants offer an invaluable shield against cavities, ensuring children maintain optimal oral health.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, sealants can endure up to 5 to 10 years. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the lifespan may be influenced by factors such as the quality of the sealant application, the patient’s oral habits, and the wear and tear from chewing and grinding. Regular visits to the dentist allow for monitoring and potential reapplication if necessary, ensuring that children continue to benefit from the added protection of dental sealants over the long term.
When tooth decay has damaged a tooth, it’s important to restore the tooth with a supportive dental crown. By protecting your kids’ teeth at an early age, you ensure their oral development is protected too!
Are Dental Sealants Safe?
Yes, dental sealants are considered safe and have been used for decades to protect teeth from cavities. The materials used in dental sealants, typically a type of plastic resin, have been thoroughly tested and approved by dental authorities for use in dental procedures. The application of sealants is non-invasive and does not require drilling or any discomfort. Additionally, the American Dental Association (ADA) and other reputable dental organizations endorse the use of dental sealants as an effective preventive measure for children’s oral health. While some individuals may have concerns about potential exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) in certain dental sealants, research has shown that the BPA levels released are minimal and considered safe. Overall, dental sealants offer a safe and valuable method to protect children’s teeth and reduce the risk of cavities when applied by trained dental professionals. Learn more on the ADA website.
How to Care for Your Child's Teeth After Dental Sealants
After your child receives dental sealants, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices to ensure their continued effectiveness and overall dental health. Encourage your child to brush their teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Flossing should be a part of their daily routine to clean between teeth and remove plaque buildup.
While dental sealants provide an added layer of protection, a balanced diet and limited intake of sugary snacks and drinks are essential to prevent decay. Regular dental check-ups every six months will allow the dentist to monitor the sealants’ condition and provide timely reapplication if needed. By combining proper at-home care and routine dental visits, you can ensure that your child’s dental sealants stay in excellent condition and effectively safeguard their teeth from cavities for years to come.
Get Started on Preventive Dental Care
KidSmile Dental is currently accepting new patients! Our pediatric dentistry office focuses on preventive dental care to ensure your child is set up for success when it comes to oral health. We also provide a comfortable atmosphere to help reduce nerves. Contact us to set up a new appointment.
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