The Importance of Dental Sealants

As part of your child’s dental prevention program, dental sealants are often recommended to protect their permanent back teeth from developing decay. According to the American Dental Association, dental sealants can reduce the risk of cavities in molars by approximately 80%.

Extra Protection for Young Teeth

While maintaining proper oral hygiene, including good toothbrushing habits and avoiding sticky sweets, is crucial for preventing dental decay, children’s teeth often need additional protection. The deeply grooved chewing surfaces of the back permanent teeth can be challenging for a child to keep clean, making them particularly vulnerable to decay.

How Dental Sealants Work

Dental sealants provide a strong, plastic-like protective coating for the chewing surfaces of a child’s permanent back teeth. They fill in the pits, fissures, and grooves on these teeth, sealing out harmful bacteria and food particles. Besides preventing the development of cavities, sealants can also stop further damage from occurring over areas of incipient dental decay.

Quick and Painless Application

Applying dental sealants is a relatively quick and painless process. The sealant material is brushed on during a child’s dental visit and then cured with a light wand. Sealants are strong, durable, and can last for several years. The condition of your child’s dental sealants will be evaluated at each checkup and reapplied if necessary.

Ensuring Long-Term Oral Health

At Dental Associates of North Smithfield, we are committed to providing the best preventive care for your child’s smile. Dental sealants offer an effective and comfortable way to protect young teeth from decay, helping ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.