Dental decay is the leading chronic childhood disease. While good oral hygiene habits and regularly visiting the dentist can prevent dental caries, dental sealants are one method used by our Floss Boss team to prevent cavities in the permanent and primary molars. According to a study endorsed by the American Dental Association (ADA), dental sealants carefully placed on occlusal (biting) surfaces saw a 73% reduction in the risk of developing new cavities (compared to those that received only fluoride varnishes).
What are dental sealants? Dental sealants are biocompatible plastic protective coatings placed on the chewing surface of the back teeth. Generally, back teeth have deep grooves, which tend to be more challenging to clean with a toothbrush. Thus, making the back teeth more vulnerable to decay. Dental sealants for kids act as a barrier to food, plaque, and acids—the main culprits of cavities.
Our Approach to Dental Sealants
Serving Flemington, Bridgewater, and Pennington, NJ, dentist Dr. Kruti Sanghavi can cover the back area of the mouth with dental sealants. Dental sealants decrease the size of the grooves in the back teeth, which makes them less likely to accumulate plaque in the crevices. Theoretically, dental sealants will make these vulnerable back teeth less prone to cavities. Dental sealants can be an add-on service after a basic dental cleaning.
Does my child need dental sealants?
If not addressed on time, cavities can spread and ultimately cause tooth loss, pain, infection, swelling, and severe lifestyle detriment. Dental sealants are a preventive, general dentistry measure and can:
· Protect your child’s chewing surfaces from cavities
· Offers added support for overall oral care practices
· Last up to 10 years
· Be easy to maintain and repair (as needed)
What happens during a dental sealant procedure?
First, the back teeth are cleaned and dried. Then, Dr. Sanghavi coats the molars with a gel formula. After the gel dries, the teeth are brushed with a special dental sealant resin. Next, the sealant must dry and might be hardened with light exposure. Generally, dental sealants are clear, white, or slightly colored to match the natural color of the enamel. Typically, it’s difficult to notice dental sealants when our young patients smile, talk, or laugh because they are intended to blend in with natural teeth.
Prevent Cavities by Protecting Teeth with Dental Sealants
It pays to be proactive. Relatively affordable preventive dentistry measures, like dental sealants, can help kids avoid much more costly dental restorations or extraction down the road. Combined with good oral hygiene habits, healthy eating, and regular kids’ dental appointments, dental sealants are an excellent way to maintain healthy and strong teeth indefinitely.
Floss Boss Pediatric Dentistry offers high-quality dental sealants to children of all ages. Dr. Sanghavi will evaluate your child before recommending sealants. Our pediatric dentist’s office in Flemington, NJ, offers high-quality, affordable sealants that would last for many years. To learn more about dental sealants, please give us a call at (908) 860-8913, request an appointment online, or send us an e-mail at [email protected].
