Are Dental Sealants Right for My Child?

Today, many dentists recommend dental sealants for children. But with several options, you want to make sure you do what is best for your child. To accomplish that, you first want to find a dentist who offers family care. Then, have a consultation to discuss the various possibilities.

What are dental sealants?

In simple terms, dental sealants are one of many treatments used by dentists to help fight tooth decay. Although these work for patients of all ages, dental professionals commonly recommend them for children. After all, while growing up, kids face more obstacles involving tooth decay than most adults. With so much snacking and unfortunately, bad food choices, this becomes a serious issue that can have long-term effects.

Are different kinds of sealants available?

Two types exist for the most part. While both of these are resin-based, one is the filled option and the other the unfilled. For the filled type, these dental sealants include resins, fillers, and chemicals. As such, bonding strength increases. This type also offers more resistance to wear and abrasion. But due to the wear-resistance and hardness of the filled type, a dentist must check the patient after each placement.

As for the unfilled kind of dental sealants, the primary difference is the higher degree of resin compared to filler. Because this has a low rate of flow, it seeps easily into fissures and pits. Regardless, most dental professionals strongly suggest a sealant that contains fluoride. That way, a child has even more protection.

What is the right age for children to get dental sealants?

Most dentists feel the right time for children to get dental sealants is when the permanent molars first appear. That usually occurs between the ages of five and seven. But once kids get their second set of permanent molars, a dentist can provide another sealant. Usually, that is between 11 and 14 years of age.

What are the primary benefits?

Even when told to brush and floss at least twice a day, most kids miss the mark. Over time, food particles and plaque build up on the teeth. The problem is that toothbrushes cannot reach very well to the back of the mouth. So, any grooves or depressions become a prime target for plaque and particles. With dental sealants, those hard-to-reach areas have protection.

With dental sealants, children end up with fewer cavities. That means fewer trips to the dentist’s office. However, parents still need to have their kids seen regularly. That way, the dentist can spot any potential problem before it spirals out of control.

Protecting your kids

The last thing you want is for your child to struggle with ongoing problems with their teeth. Instead, you want them to have healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. Thanks to dental sealants, that is an achievable goal. To ensure your kids receive the correct sealant, schedule an appointment with a dentist who specializes in children.

Request an appointment here: https://sonorandesertdentistry.com or call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at (480) 439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.

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