It's no secret that dentists recommend pediatric dental sealants for children. Parents want to do all they can to protect their children’s teeth, so they are willing to take advice from professionals. That said, some think that pediatric sealants in Whittier, NC, are not so important. They might think that the benefits are not worth the cost.
As a parent, one of your biggest responsibilities is to ensure your child's dental health. That is why you must take an active role in their dental care. Not only will you be ensuring that your child has a beautiful smile, but you can also reduce their risk of developing dental problems such as cavities and gum disease.
Pediatric dental sealants can also help reduce the risk of developing decay in situations where the child's teeth are already broken or decayed.
What You Need to Know About Pediatric Dental Sealants
What are Pediatric Dental Sealants?
Pediatric dental sealants are small, clear plastic devices made especially for children – but adults can get sealants too! They are used to protect the tooth's surface and prevent cavities from forming. These are applied to the chewing surfaces of your child's back molars to help protect the teeth from decay.
The advantage of using these products is that they can be used long-term, making them the most effective means of protecting the teeth of children who are still growing.
Why Pediatric Sealants Work
While sealants protect teeth by filling in the pits and grooves on the surface, they do not seal the pits completely, so cavities can still occur. However, sealants may prevent about 90% of cavities. These are recommended in children who still have their baby teeth since they can be easily removed once the permanent teeth are in place.
However, it’s not to say that dental sealants are a substitute for good oral care. While they work to protect your child’s teeth from tooth decay, good oral health practices aimed at removing plaque buildup will help ensure the cleanliness and health of your child’s teeth.
What are the Benefits of Pediatric Dental Sealants?
By protecting the teeth, these products help children have a healthy mouth, reduce the risk of tooth decay, and develop healthy gums. The sealants are safe, affordable, easy to apply, and very effective. They are a perfect solution for parents who want to ensure that their children have a beautiful smile.
The benefits of pediatric dental sealants are many, but there is no doubt that you will see them in your child's mouth before long.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Although pediatric sealants are very effective, they have a shelf-life and may need reapplication over time. As a general rule, if the sealants are applied correctly and are in good condition and not chipped, cracked, or separated from the cavity, they will last for years. Some sealants last for as long as ten years. Most sealants last for about five to seven years.
However, if your child has a broken tooth, the sealant will need to be changed. That is a decision you will need to make and discuss with your dentist. Since sealants are designed to protect your child's teeth, it is important that you have them checked regularly. If you notice that your sealant is cracked or chipped, you should discuss the situation with your dentist.
Having your sealant checked regularly will help to ensure that it will last as long as possible.
Protect Your Child's Teeth with Pediatric Sealants from Whittier, NC
At Cataloochee Dental Group, we aspire to give your child's teeth the defense they deserve. Call us today to schedule an appointment and start protecting your kid's precious teeth.