How Dental Sealants Change Your Child’s Oral Health?

Even if you brush and floss your teeth every day, cavities can still form, especially in the back teeth, which are hard to reach. Dental sealants in Bayside, NY, are an easy and effective way to solve this problem because they add another layer of defense against cavities. This complete guide will teach you all that you need to know about dental sealants and how they can improve the mouth health of your child.

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are very thin pieces of plastic glue that are put on the eating areas of the back teeth, mainly the molars and premolars. As a shield, these seals go over the deep grooves and pits in your teeth, which are common places for food and germs to gather. By sealing off these vulnerable areas, sealants help prevent cavities from forming.

What Are the Purposes of Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are primarily aimed at cavity prevention by sealing off bacteria and food particles from the deep dental grooves and pits of the molars. Sealants also serve several other purposes:

• They protect the natural tooth structure by preserving the enamel and preventing decay.
• Sealants offer a non-invasive and painless solution for cavity prevention, making them ideal for children who may be afraid of dental procedures.
• By reducing the risk of cavities, sealants can save time and money on future dental treatments.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

The lifespan of dental sealants can vary depending on various factors, including the type of sealant used, the quality of the application, and the individual’s oral hygiene habits. On average, sealants can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years with proper oro-dental care and upkeep. However, it’s essential to visit a dentist near you on a regular basis for check-ups to ensure the sealants remain intact and effective.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Sealants, and How Do They Work?

Dental sealants offer numerous benefits for children’s oral health, such as:

• Sealants are more affordable than treating cavities and other dental problems.
• Sealants preserve the integrity of teeth, ensuring that children can chew food effectively and supporting proper nutrition and overall health.
• Children with sealants can feel more confident about their smiles, knowing their teeth are protected and less prone to cavities.
• Sealants are made from safe, biocompatible materials that pose no harm to children’s health.
• Long-lasting results with minimal maintenance required, providing peace of mind for parents and children alike.

Sealants function by filling the deep grooves and pits on molars, forming a smooth surface that is more resistant to decay. In the application procedure, the teeth are cleaned and dried before the sealant material is delicately placed on the chewing surfaces. Subsequently, a special curing light is used to harden the sealant, establishing a robust and long-lasting shield against cavities.

How Often Should You Get Dental Sealants?

Children should typically get dental sealants as soon as their permanent molars erupt, which usually occurs around the ages of 6 and 12. Sealants can also be applied to premolars if they have deep grooves and pits. Your dentist in Bayside, NY, will assess your child’s teeth and recommend sealants as needed. Also, sealants may need to be reapplied over time as they wear down or become damaged.

Who Should Get Sealants?

While sealants are typically advised for children who are more susceptible to cavities because of their evolving oral care routines and diet preferences, adults can also find them beneficial, particularly if they are cavity-prone or have deep molar grooves. Your Bayside dentist will assess your oral health and suggest sealants if they are deemed suitable for your specific requirements.

Can Dental Sealants Be Applied to Existing Cavities?

Dental sealants are not intended to treat existing cavities. They are a preventive measure designed to protect against future decay. If your child has cavities, they will need to be treated with fillings or other restorative procedures before sealants can be applied. However, sealants can be applied to teeth with early signs of decay to avert further damage and decay.

Aftercare for Kids’ Dental Sealants

After getting dental sealants in Bayside, NY, it is crucial to maintain good oro-dental hygiene habits to ensure their effectiveness. This includes:

• Brushing teeth two times and flossing once a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove dental bacterial plaque and food particles.
• Regular flossing between teeth and prevent plaque buildup.
• Regular dental examinations and cleanings with a dentist near you are vital for monitoring the status of the sealants and verifying their durability and efficacy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dental sealants are a simple yet effective way to protect your child’s oral health and prevent cavities. Sealants provide durable safeguarding and reassurance to parents by effectively covering the susceptible parts of the teeth. If you are interested in learning more about dental sealants or scheduling an appointment for your child, contact Dental Expressions by Dr. Gary Bram in Bayside, NY, today. Your child’s smile is worth protecting!