Dental Sealants – Lynchburg
Protect Your Child’s Growing Smile
As your child is getting older, their primary teeth are falling out and their adult teeth are erupting. Molars and premolars are especially prone to developing cavities at this time as your child is learning to take care of these new teeth with deeper grooves than their primary teeth. At Peery & Woolwine Family Dentistry, we offer dental sealants to help protect their teeth during this time. Continue reading to learn more about dental sealants, the process, and how they work.
What Are Dental Sealants?
A dental sealant is a clear, biocompatible material made of plastic that is painted onto the teeth. It works by creating a strong, protective barrier between the surface of the tooth and harmful plaque and bacteria that can result in cavities. The American Dental Association recommends that children get dental sealants between the ages of 5 and 7 and again between the ages of 11 and 14 as their molars are coming in.
How Are Dental Sealants Placed?
Getting a dental sealant only takes a few minutes and can be completed during your child’s normal dental cleaning and checkup. Once their teeth have been thoroughly cleaned and dried, the sealant is painted onto their back molars. Next, a special light is used to harden it in place. Lastly, we will check to make sure that your child’s bite is still comfortable and make adjustments if needed. This sealant can last up to 9 years!
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Anyone who is prone to tooth decay on their back teeth could benefit from sealants. Children and teenagers between the ages of 6 and 14 are usually good candidates for this treatment. This is because they are still perfecting the ritual of thoroughly brushing and flossing their smile, and their new molars have much deeper grooves than their primary teeth did, putting them at higher risk of decay. Sealants offer an extra layer of protection as your child is adjusting to their new, adult smile!