By age 8, over half of all children in the United States have had at least one cavity.
That might not sound overly concerning since primary teeth eventually fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth. But that’s not the case. The health of baby teeth is vital for several reasons. Among them: when decayed baby teeth require premature removal, they leave gaps that can cause nearby teeth to shift, preventing permanent teeth from coming in correctly.
Cavities and tooth decay are chronic problems, although highly preventable. And one of the most effective preventive measures is dental sealants.
Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of your child’s back teeth. Here are five reasons the board-certified dentists at Trident Dental in Houston, TX, recommend all children get dental sealants.
Cavity prevention
Dental sealants act as a barrier, shielding your child’s teeth from harmful bacteria and acids that cause cavities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children without sealants have almost three times more cavities than those with sealants.
Long-lasting protection
Dental sealants are durable and can last up to ten years. They’re designed to withstand constant chewing and grinding during eating. They protect your child’s teeth from cavities during their crucial years of development.
Easy application process
Applying dental sealants is quick and painless. The dentist thoroughly cleans your child’s teeth and then uses a special gel to roughen the tooth’s surface. This helps the sealant adhere more effectively. Afterward, the dentist paints the sealant onto the tooth, which bonds and hardens. The entire process usually takes only a few minutes per tooth.
Suitable for all children
Dental sealants are safe for all ages. They are particularly beneficial for children and teenagers who are more prone to cavities. Dental sealants can reduce the risk of cavities by 80% in the first two years post-application. The ideal time to get sealants is soon after your child’s permanent molars come in, around ages 6-12.
Smart investment
Investing in dental sealants for your child is a proactive step toward their long-term oral health. Not only will they have added protection against cavities, but they will also enjoy a healthier smile well into adulthood.
How often should your child get dental sealants?
Your dentist checks the condition of your child’s sealants as a routine part of their regular dental checkups. If needed, the dentist will reapply the sealant.
The Trident Dental team is committed to ensuring healthy and happy smiles for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment for anyone in the family, call the office or book an appointment online today.