DENTAL SEALANTS

The most common recipients of dental sealants are children and young teenagers. Around the age of 6 is when you can expect the first molars to appear, and around age 12 is when the second set erupts from the gums. This age group is prone to cavities, so it is important to seal the molars as early as possible. As a general rule, as soon as a molar comes in, a sealant should be applied to protect it. However, sometimes sealants are applied to baby teeth that have deep depressions. Adults with little to no decay can also receive sealants.

Sealants are barriers that help protect teeth from decay. According to the American Dental Association, dental sealants reduce the risk of decay in molars by 80 percent for 2 years and will protect teeth from 50% of cavities for up to 4 years. Brushing and flossing can help dislodge food particles from the teeth and remove plaque, but the hard-to-reach chewing surfaces of the molars are especially prone to decay. A dental sealant is a coating designed to protect any crevices on the back teeth.

Sealants cover the uneven surface of the molar where food sticks—effectively protecting from decay. Sealants prevent cavity lesions in baby teeth and adult teeth for both children and teenagers. It is one of the best preventative measures you can take against cavities for your kids or teenagers.

The application process is often quick and can be done by our dental professionals. First, our dentist or hygienist will clean your child’s teeth thoroughly to remove any food particles and plaque. Next, they will dry your kid’s teeth to make sure the sealant sticks properly. Afterwards, our dentist will paint on the sealant coating which will flow into pits and crevices where cavities would naturally form. Finally, they will let it set on its own and check to make sure the sealant has hardened properly and is adequately covered over all of the back teeth. Once applied, your child can eat and drink as usual without any restrictions.