Dental Sealants in Morgan Hill, CA

Shielding Smiles: The Power of Dental Sealants for Kids

Understanding Dental Sealants for Kids

Dental sealants are a thin coating of composite material that forms a hardened shield over the tooth, protecting it from cavities in hard-to-reach areas. These sealants are usually applied to the back molars, as these teeth are the most challenging to clean with a toothbrush alone. At Bay Area Kids Dentist, we typically wait until a child is around six years old to apply dental sealants, when most children get their first set of molars.

The American Dental Association states that 70 percent of children have some form of tooth decay by the age of 19. To help prevent your child from becoming part of this statistic, we use dental sealants as an extra measure to protect their teeth from decay. The procedure is quick, easy, and painless. Our dentists explain each step in terms that kids can understand, helping them feel comfortable and informed.

The Process of Applying Dental Sealants

The first step in applying dental sealants involves thoroughly cleaning the tooth so the sealant will adhere properly. The dentist will use a small brush attached to a dental drill to clean your child’s teeth. If the noise is scary, the dentist will pause and explain the procedure to reassure your child. After dental cleaning, the dentist brushes off any debris loosened by the drill.

Next, the dentist applies an etching gel to the area where the sealant will go. This gel needs to stay on the tooth for about one minute to create a sticky surface for the sealant. After the gel has worked, the dentist cleans the tooth and dries it with an air gun.

Then, the dentist applies the liquid sealant to the grooves of the back teeth. This liquid can cover the entire surface area of the tooth, especially the grooves and fissures where food particles often get trapped. The dentist uses a curing light to set the sealant. A final check ensures the sealant doesn’t interfere with your child’s normal bite. The whole process takes about five minutes.

Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children’s Oral Health

Dental sealants for children can last up to 10 years. According to the American Dental Association, children with sealants experience 86 percent fewer cavities after one year and 58 percent fewer after four years. Educating your child about good oral and dental hygiene habits is important to keep sealants effective. This means brushing their teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, avoiding teeth clenching, and eating healthy foods.

Parents who have never had dental sealants may not see this procedure’s immediate benefit for their children. If you’re looking for dental sealants near me, our team is here to help.

When to Consider Dental Sealants for Your Child

Considering dental sealants for your child is essential when their first molars appear, usually around age six. These sealants provide a protective barrier against cavities in hard-to-reach areas of the teeth. As children grow and their second molars come in around age 12, applying sealants can further protect against decay. Regular dental check-ups will help determine the best time for this preventive measure, ensuring your child’s teeth remain healthy and cavity-free.

Long-Term Protection with Dental Sealants

Dental sealants provide long-term protection by forming a barrier against cavities. This preventive measure is especially beneficial for the back molars, which are more complicated to clean and prone to decay. If you’re considering dental sealants for your child, consult a dentist in Morgan Hill, CA, to determine the best timing and approach.

Comparing Dental Sealants to Other Preventive Treatments

While dental sealants are highly effective, they work best when combined with other preventive treatments, such as regular cleanings and fluoride treatments. Sealants for teeth provide extra protection, greatly reducing the risk of cavities.

Contact us today to learn more about dental sealants and other preventive treatments we offer.