As parents, you’re well aware of the importance of brushing, flossing, regular check-ups, and cleanings in the prevention of tooth decay. Educating your children on good oral health practices is key but there are also other ways you can help prevent the occurrence of cavities. At Burleson Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, we believe dental sealants can play an integral role in healthy dental care for kids in Kansas City.
Molars are the teeth in the back of the mouth that contain grooves, pits and ridges. While they make it easier for us to chew our food, eventually, these grooves and ridges become worn down, causing food, plaque, and bacteria to get caught in them. When that happens, it can result in infection, pain and tooth decay or cavities. Cavities occur mostly in the back teeth or molars, which is why dental sealants are typically placed on the chewing surfaces of them.
With dental sealants, molars are protected by a thin coat that is painted on them, keeping out germs, plaque, and bacteria. Our dentist will clean the tooth, place a gel on it, then clean it and dry it. The process is easy and painless and most kids won’t feel them after a short while. They’re also not noticeable when your child smiles or talks, as dental sealants are usually white, clear or slightly tinted.
Sealants Vs. Fillings
In comparison to filings, sealants are an extremely effective way to prevent cavities from forming. They’re also quicker, easier to apply and less expensive than fillings. We can apply dental sealants when your child’s permanent molars come in, around 6 years of age for the first ones, and 12 years of age for the second ones.
More Benefits of Dental Sealants
Sealants can last up to nine years, but sometimes, they do fall off. If that happens, getting them replaced is very easy. Make sure your dentist inspects the status of your child’s sealants at every check-up. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dental sealants protect against 80% of cavities for up to two years, and up to 50% for up to four years. The CDC also states that children aged 6 – 11 who have dental sealants are three times less likely to experience first molar cavities than kids without them.
Schedule an Appointment to Learn More About Healthy Dental Care for Kids in Kansas City Today
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other pediatric dental and orthodontic-related topics, feel free to contact Burleson Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, with four convenient orthodontic and pediatric dental offices located in the Kansas City, MO area by clicking here or by calling (816) 759-0123.