Dental Sealants – Midwest City, OK
Invest in the Protection of Dental Sealants
Your child’s teeth are important for more than just a beautiful smile. They are also influential in their health and development. Tooth decay is the biggest threat to your child’s dental health. According to recent studies, 60% to 90% of children in industrialized nations are affected by cavities. Dental sealants are proven to reduce 80% of tooth decay for 2 years after being applied to the molars. Dr. Kendrick can safeguard your child’s precious smile from cavities with the protection of dental sealants in Midwest City.
What Are Dental Sealants?
A dental sealant is a thin, liquid coating that’s applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. They are generally made from medical-grade resins or glass ionomers, making them safe and biocompatible. The clear or tooth-colored coating creates a barrier between enamel and cavity-causing bacteria in hard-to-clean places, like the crevices of molars.
Molars are prone to decay, especially in children, because they are difficult to keep clean. Food residue and bacteria can get trapped in the grooves, slowly eroding enamel until a cavity occurs. A dental sealant covers the crevices to prevent decay.
Researchers have found that children have 70% fewer cavities on chewing surfaces of teeth after 5 years of having dental sealants applied. When combined with good oral hygiene habits, fluoride treatments, and regular dental care, you can protect your child's smile from decay. It's also important to limit your child's consumption of sugary foods and drinks, which contribute to cavities.
How Are Dental Sealants Placed?
Applying dental sealants is a quick and painless process that can be done during your child's routine cleaning and checkup. A member that their dental team will clean and dry their teeth. The sealant is painted onto the tooth surface and a special dental light may be used to harden it in just a few seconds. There's no need for shots or drilling.
Who Should Receive Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are recommended for children 5 to 14 years of age, but there’s no age limit to benefit from the power of their protection. Dental sealants can last for many years, but it's not unusual for them to be damaged or fall off over time. Your child's pediatric dentist will check their sealants at each routine appointment to replace them as necessary.
If you're ready for your child to harness the powerful protection of dental sealants, request an appointment through our website or call our office at (405) 732-0431.