What Are Dental Sealants? How Can They Help My Child?

Children are especially vulnerable to problems like tooth decay, so dentists must take action to prevent cavities. Dental sealants are one tool at their disposal. Children and even babies can benefit from dental sealants to help prevent tooth decay in their back teeth.

Your child’spediatric dentist in Oklahoma City and Midwest City, AR, may recommend sealants, but you can also ask about them if you’d like your child to get them. Here’s what you need to know about dental sealants.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a thin protective coating painted over tooth enamel to create a barrier between the tooth and bacteria that can cause decay. They are painted on the molars in the back of the mouth.

Should My Child Get Dental Sealants?

It’s very common for children between the ages of 6 and 14 to have dental sealants because children are at risk for cavities and tooth decay. Dentists often recommend that people with deep grooves in their molars also get sealants. You can find out if your child is a good candidate for dental sealants by asking the dentist.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Dental sealants can last up to 5 years, but the dentist will likely want to reapply them before that time. Sealants can start to chip away after a few years, and their ability to provide cavity protection is reduced before they are totally gone.

Would your child benefit fromdental sealants in Oklahoma City and Midwest City, AR? Ask your child’s dentist about them at the next dental appointment with Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry.