Children’s Dentist on What to Know about Dental Sealants

No matter your age, excellent dental care is all about preventing the common oral health hazards. Fighting cavities presents a special challenge for children, whose still-developing tooth enamel is softer and therefore more vulnerable to tooth decay. Fortunately, your children’s dentist in Camp Hill has one excellent tool for protecting against cavities: dental sealants. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this preventive measure!

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are translucent coverings that can be painted directly onto the surface of the molars and premolars (the back teeth). They work by forming a protective barrier against these irregular surfaces, which are prone to catching and trapping food particles, plaque, and acids that can then accelerate the rate of tooth decay.

The procedure for dental sealants is simple, pain-free, and completed in just one visit to the dentist. Usually after a dental cleaning, the hygienist will thoroughly dry the surface of each of your child’s teeth that will receive a sealant. Then, the clear resin is painted over the chewing surface. This sealant is dried in a couple of minutes using a special UV light, and the process is complete.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

When everything goes like it should, dental sealants should be able to protect your child’s molars against cavities for up to 10 years. Your child’s dentist will continue to check in on the sealant in follow-up visits to make sure it has not worn down or developed a tear. If this does occur, repairing a sealant is as simple as the initial procedure.

How Else Can I Protect against Cavities?

Helping to protect your little one’s smile against all the things it encounters during childhood is a major battle. Remember following tips to keep those young teeth healthy and clean:

• Help your child to brush for two minutes, twice a day, each and every day
• Floss between the teeth daily as soon as two teeth are touching each other
• Keep a progress chart and set small rewards for good hygiene behavior
• Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel against plaque and acids
• Pick up a kid-friendly mouth rinse for additional help fighting bacteria
• Stock your pantry at home with nutritious, low-sugar items
• Invest in a customized mouth guard if your child plays contact sports
• Visit the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning

With these tips practiced daily and the help of dental sealants, you can feel good knowing that you are doing everything in your power to keep your little one’s smile healthy! Don’t delay in contacting your kid’s dentist in Camp Hill to book a visit for dental sealants.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Rina Singh and Dr. John Maynard offer excellent dental care for patients of all ages. They believe the foundation of all successful treatment plans is prevention — and with children, that often means dental sealants. If your child has not benefited from this protective treatment, don’t wait to contact the office by calling them at (717) 937-8180.