Candies and sodas are go-to treats for most kids, so parents must do everything within their reach to protect their children's mouths from dangerous decay. Once dentists in Whittier, NC, clean a child's teeth thoroughly, they apply pediatric sealants as a preventive measure against cavities. Get answers to the most popular questions about these protective coatings to learn how they can change the oral health of your little ones.
Pediatric sealants are resin layers that protect your child's teeth from cavities. Decay is one of the leading dental problems in the world, affecting over half of American children from six to eight years old. To combat this disease, dentists place sealants on the biting section of your kid's teeth so acidic and harmful substances cannot penetrate enamel and damage more sensitive parts like the pulp or root. After your child gets pediatric sealants, their smile can battle over 80% of bacteria entering their mouth, keeping oral issues at bay.
While sealants and fillings are valuable weapons against cavities, the difference lies in their purpose. A dental professional will use fillings to cover holes that tooth decay has already drilled in your teeth. On the other hand, pediatric sealants stop cavities from hurting your teeth, so dentists will never need to patch up any damage with fillings. Both methods protect your teeth, but fillings restore and sealants prevent.
Dentists only place sealants over the teeth your child uses to chew, as these are the ones that come into contact with food remains and bacteria the most. These permanent teeth, known as molars, erupt between ages six and 12, which is the ideal time to ask your pediatric dentist for sealants. Letting more time pass increases your child's chances of getting tooth decay, so make sure to ask a dental professional if your children are ready for sealants over their next appointment.
Lucky for your kids, getting pediatric sealants won't hurt in the slightest. After your dentist cleans your kid's teeth, they'll place sealants on the molars and shine a UV light to help the resin harden. Over the first few days after the procedure, children might be able to feel this thin later if they press their tongues against it. Yet, they'll quickly adapt to this new coat without discomfort or pain.
When applied by a qualified dentist, sealants can protect your molars for up to a decade. Still, if your child has been binging on sugar or not taking proper care of their teeth, dentists can reapply sealants after cleanings to ensure your kid's smile remains protected. Pediatric sealants can stay in tip-top shape if you teach your children to adopt habits such as:
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Choosing pediatric sealants allows your kids to enjoy their childhood without worrying about cavities and tooth decay. At Cataloochee Dental Group, we prioritize your and your family's health. If you want to keep your child's smile bacteria-free, contact us today and book an appointment!
