Dental sealants are a preventative measure in pediatric dentistry that aims to protect your child's teeth from decay. These thin, protective coatings, applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (where most cavities in children are found), act as a shield against bacteria and acids that cause tooth decay. The procedure is simple, painless, and can be completed in a single visit to Dr. Danny Le at Glow Pediatric Dentistry in Pflugerville. Sealants are especially beneficial for children who have deep grooves in their teeth, making it difficult for toothbrush bristles to effectively clean these areas.
As a parent, you want the best for your child, and that includes their oral health. Cavities are one of the most common childhood diseases, and if left untreated, they can lead to pain, infections, and problems with eating, speaking, and learning. Dental sealants provide a protective barrier on your child's teeth, preventing food and bacteria from settling into the tiny grooves and causing decay. They are incredibly effective, reducing the risk of decay in the molars by up to 80%. With dental sealants, you're not just investing in your child's oral health today, but you're also setting them up for a healthier future. Contact our Pflugerville pediatric dentist today for more information!
Dental sealants prevent nearly 80% of cavities in children’s back teeth according to the CDC.
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Dental sealants are not just effective; they're also long-lasting. With proper care, sealants can last for several years before a reapplication is needed. During your child's regular dental check-ups, Dr. Le will check the condition of the sealants and reapply them if necessary, ensuring that your child's teeth remain protected against decay for years to come.
The process of applying dental sealants is straightforward and painless, making it an excellent option for children. There's no drilling or removal of tooth structure required. The sealant is simply painted onto the tooth and hardened with a special light. The procedure is quick, often taking just a few minutes per tooth, ensuring your child won't feel anxious or uncomfortable.
Prevention is always better (and cheaper) than cure. Dental sealants are a cost-effective way to prevent cavities and the need for more extensive, expensive dental treatments in the future. Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of sealants for children, making them an affordable option for most families.
The process begins with a thorough cleaning of your child's teeth. This is done to ensure that no plaque or food particles are trapped under the sealant. Dr. Le or a dental hygienist will clean and dry the tooth before moving on to the next step.
The sealant is then applied to the tooth's surface using a small brush. It's painted into the grooves of the tooth where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. This process is quick and painless.
The final step involves hardening the sealant. Dr. Le will use a special blue light to harden the sealant, effectively sealing off the grooves of your child's teeth from food and bacteria. The hardened sealant is both durable and completely safe.