The 411 On Dental Sealants

Caring for your child's oral health should be at the top of your list of priorities. From teaching them the importance of proper brushing and flossing to bringing them in for regular dental checkups, there are many ways to instill the imperative nature of oral hygiene. Sealants can also be beneficial to your child's smile, but most parents do not even know what this dental treatment consists of. This guide will help you understand dental sealants.

The 411

As the name suggests, dental sealants seal the exterior of the tooth. This sealant provides an extra layer of protection, preventing food and bacteria from seeping into the actual tooth pulp.

The sealant is manufactured out of composite liquid resin, which is applied to the tooth's surface and then cured using a special light.

In most cases, sealants are applied to children's teeth to help strengthen the enamel as they grow and develop. Of course, sealants can be applied to any patient's teeth.

The application of a sealant to the tooth is not painful or uncomfortable. However, your child may experience some emotional distress if they have never been to the dentist before. Be sure to talk with your child about the importance of dental care, and let them know the sealant material is basically painted onto the tooth so that they will not feel any discomfort.

The Benefits

Now that you know what a sealant actually is, you may be wondering about the benefits. Obviously, having this extra layer of protection that makes the teeth stronger is beneficial.

In addition to strengthening the overall tooth, dental sealants protect the tooth's pits from food particles and bacteria that even brushing will struggle to remove.

Sealants help reduce the risk of cavities and decay while also help to prevent deep stains that affect the underlying tooth enamel.

Surprisingly, the dental sealants start providing the teeth with an enormous amount of protection immediately after application. Sealants also last for many years, so your child's teeth will be protected in an effective and long-term manner, giving you a great deal of peace of mind.

It is important that you and your child continue brushing and flossing the teeth as recommended even after the sealants are applied. This ensures the most effective protection against cavities and decay.

Help is available if you feel your child's teeth need extra protection. Talk to a pediatric dental office such as Dentistry For Children & Adolescents today to learn more about dental sealants and their benefits.