Are Dental Sealants Right for My Child?

Dentists often recommend dental sealants for children as a way to protect the teeth from cavities or wear and tear. Oftentimes, they are applied to the baby teeth so that they remain healthy until the adult teeth take over. After the adult teeth come in, the dentist may want to reapply in order to set the child up for successful oral health.
While the procedure is commonly and highly recommended, some parents are still unsure if is it necessary or right for their children. In short, dental sealants are right for just about anyone, even adults! This quick and simple procedure can go a long way in protecting the teeth and preventing damage. Nonetheless, it can be helpful for parents to become familiar with what is involved before making a decision. Keep reading to learn more!
Deciding on dental sealants
Below is a quick overview of dental sealants, including how to determine if they are a good choice for children. This information can be helpful for parents who are not sure what route to take.
Dental sealants defined
Dental sealants are coatings that go over molar teeth to protect them and prevent damage. The procedure is painless and pretty quick. Children undergoing dental sealants can expect to have a liquid painted onto the bite surface of the teeth, which should take no more than 30 minutes.
The role of dental sealants
Dental sealants act as a protective barrier to external forces, such as the friction caused by teeth grinding or jaw clenching. They are often recommended as a preventive measure because they literally seal molar teeth off from being severely affected by bacteria and debris that could lead to cavities. Wear and tear on teeth protected by dental sealants is much less intense, which results in longer-lasting teeth that do not require as much restorative work.
Benefits
Parents who are considering getting dental sealants for their children should review the following benefits. Having a better understanding of why they are worth it can be helpful when deciding whether or not to move forward with the procedure.
- Preventive against cavities and decay
- Protective against wear and tear
- Minimizes the risk of damage from teeth grinding and jaw clenching
- Seals off any existing fractures or cracks
- Long-lasting
There may be other patient-specific benefits to getting dental sealants; however, these would be outlined during a consultation with the dentist.
Making a decision
Ultimately, it is up to parents to decide what care their child receives; however, in the case of dental sealants, it is highly recommended to have them placed. They are simply an added layer of security for the teeth, which can be very beneficial in the long-run.
Still have questions about dental sealants? Talking with a general dentist can be helpful. The dentist can answer any questions or go over concerns. Reach out today to get scheduled for an appointment or to find out more about dental sealant placement.
Request an appointment here: https://www.canyonridgepediatricdentistry.com or call Canyon Ridge Pediatric Dentistry at (303) 841-7900 for an appointment in our Parker office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Related Posts
Children do not often list going to the dentist as one of their favorite activities, but regular visits to the kids dentist are among the most important things that they can do in early life. By starting early, a pediatric dentist helps prepare children for a successful future that is free from major oral health…
Curious about how to find a kids dentist? Read on to learn more. When your child is one year of age or gets their first tooth, you should bring them in to see a kids dentist. It is important to look after your kid's dental health and choosing the right dentist is one of the…
Pediatric dental care keeps children's smiles healthy as they grow up. Although baby teeth fall out, they play an important role in oral development. They hold space for adult teeth and, in the meantime, allow the child to eat and smile comfortably and confidently. A pediatric dentist can support your child's oral health by maintaining…
Wondering about the importance of finding a kids dentist? Read on to learn more. A parent's primary goal is to safeguard their children's health and success in all aspects. Good oral health is a requirement for good overall health, and locating the right kids dentist might impact a child's attitude toward dental visits. A highly…