Facts About Dental Sealants
A dental sealant is an acrylic-like material that helps shield out decay-causing bacteria from the chewing surfaces of back teeth. There is no specific age at which dental sealants for children are indicated.
At AXIS Dental Group, we base our diagnosis and recommendation for dental sealants on the child’s susceptibility to tooth decay and how the teeth were shaped when they originally formed below the gum.
Sealants versus Fluoride
Sealants and fluoride are materials designed to preserve and prolong the life of teeth by preventing dental decay. Sealants are applied topically to certain areas of individual teeth and are a visible sign that the tooth is being protected. Some sealant materials now contain and release fluoride to the teeth.
How are Sealants Applied?
In this painless procedure, a solution is painted on to the chewing surface of the tooth to condition the enamel and help it bond more effectively to the sealant material. The tooth is thoroughly washed and dried. Then the sealant material is applied and allowed to harden, sometimes using ultraviolet light. The entire procedures takes only a few minutes.
Sealants Can Help Preserve Your Child’s Smile for a Lifetime!
Though dental sealants are not a cure-all in preventing tooth decay, they are cost-effective and helpful to patients, particularly children, in controlling decay in certain areas of the mouth. The combination of sealants and fluoride can be important steps in preventing tooth decay. Here are some other steps you should take to protect teeth.
- Brush twice daily
- After brushing “spit” but do not rinse
- Floss once a day
- Use recommended home-care products
- Visit us at least twice a year for routine dental checkups.
At AXIS Dental Group, we understand that going to the dentist might be a little scary for children. That’s why we encourage first time patients to come in for a “fun visit”. This complimentary visit allows children to explore our playroom – read, watch TV or play video games in order to become familiarized with the surroundings. We want your children to be comfortable in our dental office. We have been providing experienced dental care for children for over 30 years!
Contact us to learn more about Children’s Dentistry and to book your child’s first dental exam.
