What Are Dental Sealants?
The back teeth, known as the premolars and molars, have deep grooves and pits that trap plaque and bacteria, often leading to tooth decay. The anatomy and location of these teeth make them the most prone of all teeth to developing cavities during the teenage and adolescent years. That’s where dental sealants come in. These protective coatings fill the crevices on the chewing surfaces of your child’s permanent molars and premolars, sealing out food particles, plaque, and bacteria. Dental sealants have been shown to significantly reduce the risk of cavities.
When Is the Right Time for Sealants?
At TIME Pediatric Dentists, we are all about timing when it comes to protecting your child’s smile. We typically recommend placing sealants when your child’s 6-year and 12-year molars come in. Sealing these permanent teeth as they erupt helps keep them cavity-free from the start. But what if your child has missed the 6-year or 12-year mark? Provided your child or teen’s teeth are cavity-free, the best time to place sealants is now!
What Is the Dental Sealant Process?
The dental sealant application process is quick and pain-free for your child. It involves cleaning your child’s teeth, applying an etching gel to help the sealant bond, and then painting the sealant material to the tooth surfaces. A curing light will help the sealant harden and bond to the tooth surfaces.