Every February is National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) and each year the American Dental Association (ADA) focuses on something related to children’s dental health. This year the focus is on dental sealants. If your child doesn’t have sealants, you’re probably wondering what in the world they are. We’ll explain their benefits and how they can keep your children’s teeth healthy.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a thin coating that is “painted” on the top (where they chew) of the molars in their mouth. It is a simple and painless process and is exactly like it sounds. They seal and protect the teeth. Here’s how it works:
- First the tooth will be cleaned and then dried off with air
- Dentist will then paint the pre-molars and molars with the sealant formula
- It is then light activated and sealed on each tooth
It’s that easy!
Sealants for Cavity Prevention
Dental sealants are for those crevices and hard to reach spots in the mouth. The best part is they help to prevent cavities by adding an extra layer of protection from the food or drinks your child may have. The sealants can last up to 10 years, protecting the teeth for most of their childhood. When they need to be replaced, it is the same straightforward process as the first time.
The sealants can be applied starting at age six. Typically, we recommend applying them at ages six to 12 because your child’s first molar comes in at age six and the second molar comes in at age 12. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), dental sealants can prevent 80 percent of cavities in molars. Early treatment can help to prevent the need to treat for cavities and sometimes even more costly treatments!
Questions? Contact Us.
Give us a call to schedule a time for us to review your children’s teeth for dental sealants or ask us about them at your next six month cleaning. There’s no better time than during National Children’s Dental Health Month!