Getting Familiar with Dental Sealants for Your Kids
Posted on: 12 February 2016
When it comes to paediatric dental care, one of the most common treatments provided is dental sealants. These sealants are made up of plastic that is directly applied onto the occlusal surface of the tooth, which refers to the surface area that is primarily used for chewing. The aim of these sealants is to prevent premature decay on the teeth that could come about due to exposure to bacteria and acidic substances.
What types of teeth require dental sealants?
It should be noted that not all children should get dental sealants. A common misconception that parents have is that they should opt for this treatment once their child stars having their baby teeth grow in. This would be redundant though, as they will lose these baby teeth as they grow older. Instead, you should only contemplate this treatment once the permanent molars begin erupting. If your child has a high affinity toward candy though, you may want to consider sealants as soon as their permanent teeth set in. In general, all teeth are susceptible to cavities if they are not receiving the proper oral hygiene. However, tooth decay tends to be more common in molar and premolars due to their larger oclussal surface area. That is why you will typically find your paediatric dentist opting to protect these teeth rather than all your child's teeth.
What are the benefits of dental sealants?
There are numerous benefits that come with opting for dental sealants for your child. These include:
- Dental sealants are pain free: The treatment process is not traumatic to your child. It takes a few minutes before a tooth is sealed, and then you will be done with the procedure.
- Dental sealants are sturdy: Although made from plastic material, dental sealants can endure the pressure exerted from regular chewing. Therefore, you do not have to worry about replacing them on a regular basis. Additionally, they protect hard-to-reach areas such as the grooves in the molars and the depressions in the teeth. This ensures total protection against tooth decay from food particles that could get stuck in these tight spaces.
- Dental sealants are cost effective: investing in dental sealants is a good measure to take against having to pay dental fees for cavities, root canals or other expensive curative dental procedures.
- Dental sealants are discreet: Nobody will know that your child is undergoing this treatment. The sealants that are used are either white or clear. This ensures they remain virtually invisible while they are in your child's mouth.
For more information about sealants and other dental treatments, contact a local dental clinic like Redland Bay Dental Surgery Toothwise.
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