Dental sealants are clear coatings applied to the surfaces of a child\u2019s molars to prevent the\u00a0development of tooth decay. They work by preventing food and plaque from resting in the\u00a0grooves and crevices of molars \u2013 an area especially susceptible to cavities. According to the\u00a0National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, nearly 1 in 3 U.S. children ages 6 to 12\u00a0currently have sealants on their teeth.<\/p>\n
\nDid you know…<\/h4>\n
that sealants can last as long as 5 to 10 years pediatric dental patients?\u00a0Depending on a child\u2019s oral development and risk factors for tooth decay, sealants may be\u00a0applied to the teeth as young as age 6. It is at this time that the first molars typically appear.\u00a0Additional molars erupt at approximately age 12. If possible, sealants should be applied to a\u00a0child\u2019s teeth immediately after any molar has appeared to reduce the risk of early decay.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n
Will dental sealants affect the feel or appearance of my child\u2019s teeth?<\/h3>\n
Sealants bond directly to the teeth, where they harden to a clear or tooth-colored coat. This\u00a0makes them virtually undetectable to others. Though it is normal to feel new sealants with the\u00a0tongue, most children quickly adapt to their presence.<\/p>\n
What will my child experience when getting sealants?<\/h3>\n
The process of getting sealants is fast and painless. The tooth is cleaned before the\u00a0dentist paints the sealant onto the enamel. The sealant will immediately harden, acting as a\u00a0barrier between bacteria and the chewing surface of the teeth. In most cases, sealants will\u00a0last several years before needing to be reapplied. However, regular visits to the dentist will be\u00a0necessary to monitor the condition of the sealants and examine their effectiveness.<\/p>\n
Will sealants prevent all cavities?<\/h3>\n
While sealants are extremely effective for preventing tooth decay in children, they do not\u00a0replace other forms of preventative oral health care. Children should still brush and floss each\u00a0day using a fluoridated toothpaste. Regular dental exams and a balanced diet low in sugar are\u00a0also essential for good long-term oral health.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Dental sealants are clear coatings applied to the surfaces of a child\u2019s molars to prevent the\u00a0development of tooth decay. They work by preventing food and plaque from resting…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":8681,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2,7,3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7669","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dentistry","category-pediatric-dentistry","category-services"],"yoast_head":"\n
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