Every parent wants to do their best to keep their children happy, healthy, and protect them from harm. Preventive health and dental care visits provide a chance to catch and treat any concerns before they become serious. During your child’s routine examination, your dentist may suggest the application of dental sealants on their hard to reach teeth. This is a common, preventive care measure, performed on children as soon as their adult chewing teeth erupt. Through the application of this clear protective barrier, your child’s teeth can have excellent protection against plaque and cavities for several years.
What are sealants made of?
Tooth sealants are made from an ultra-thin, clear, medical grade plastic material. It is applied in liquid form and hardened with a special light. This material will dissolve over time, so there is no need for it to be removed.
Who can get sealants?
Typically, children will get their adult molars and premolars sealed when they become fully visible. However, dental sealants are an excellent preventive option for anyone that has a history of tooth decay, or has already had fillings placed in their back teeth.
How do they work?
Sealants work by creating an invisible, protective barrier over the bumpy surface of your tooth’s enamel. This barrier makes it nearly impossible for bacteria and plaque to cause harm to your teeth. Your teeth will remain protected for many years, until the sealant wears off over time.
Can sealants be applied to baby teeth?
In some cases, your dentist may recommend applying dental sealants to your child’s primary teeth. This is usually on if your child’s teeth have deep pits and grooves that could be extra susceptible to decay. Primary teeth are like place holders for adult teeth, so it is essential to keep them healthy.
ABOUT YOUR FUQUAY VARINA DENTIST:
For over 15 years, Dr. Michelle Collier and the talented professionals at Waterstone Family Dentistry have provided comfortable, compassionate dental care to patients of all ages from Fuquay Varina, NC, as well as Holly Springs, Angier, Willow Springs, Raleigh, and all surrounding communities. If you’d like to learn more, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Collier by calling (919) 557-5250 today.
