Extra Protection Against Childhood Cavities
Pediatric dental sealants give your child’s back teeth an extra layer of protection against cavities. They help keep plaque, bacteria, and food from settling into the deep grooves of molars where brushing can be more difficult. At Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry, we offer dental sealants for children in Oklahoma City and Midwest City as part of our preventive dental care to help keep growing smiles healthy.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars where cavities most commonly develop. By sealing the deep grooves and pits in these teeth, sealants help prevent bacteria and food debris from collecting in areas that are difficult to clean with brushing alone.
Why Are Dental Sealants Recommended for Children?
Children are not always thorough when it comes to brushing and flossing, making them more susceptible to cavities. Dental sealants provide an extra layer of protection, especially during the cavity-prone ages of 6 to 14. They’re an excellent preventative measure that complements regular dental hygiene practices, potentially reducing the risk of decay by up to 80%.
What to Expect During the Dental Sealant Procedure
Applying dental sealants is a fast, comfortable, and non-invasive procedure. After thoroughly cleaning and preparing the teeth, our pediatric dental team carefully applies the sealant material to the chewing surfaces before hardening it with a special curing light. The entire process typically takes only a few minutes per tooth and requires no drilling or numbing.
When Should Children Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are often recommended soon after the first and second permanent molars erupt, typically between the ages of 6 and 14. During your child’s routine dental exam, our pediatric dentists will determine whether sealants are the right preventive treatment based on their risk of cavities and stage of dental development.
Protect Your Child’s Smile with Dental Sealants
Give your child added protection against cavities with pediatric dental sealants. Contact Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry today to schedule an appointment at our Oklahoma City or Midwest City office.
