Of all parts of the human body, only the teeth cannot repair themselves. That is why when they get damaged or lost, you need to resort to dental fixes. Cavities are the number one enemies of teeth and the start of all the damage. They are the permanent holes that appear in a tooth for varied oral health-related reasons. When they occur and are not treated immediately, they can get bigger and cause infection and pain.

Kids and teenagers have more sensitive teeth than adults, making them more prone to getting cavities and tooth decay. Their teeth are weaker and can sometimes not keep up with the demands of chewing. When their sensitive teeth begin to hurt, they will avoid brushing, weakening their enamel and leading to tooth decay. 

If you want to increase your child’s protection against this possibility, a dental sealant is the best way to go. 

What Are Dental Sealants

Dentists will paint a thin coating painted onto your kid’s molars, where most of the chewing takes place. This coating is called a dental sealant, and it can prevent your tooth from getting cavities for many years. Its purpose is to act as a protective shield and prevent the teeth’s chewing surfaces from getting food particles, germs, and cavities. 

The sealant is made of BPA-free plastic. It sticks to the molars’ enamel, particularly the pits and grooves and acts as the tooth’s shield against any bacterial attack. It is a pain-free process that will not affect the way one chews. 

In their first 2 years, sealants can effectively provide cavity protection of up to 80 percent, and they lower down to 50 percent in their fourth year. For better protection, schedule a reapplication appointment in 4-5 years. 

The Dental Sealant Application Process

Here is how dentists apply the sealant to one’s teeth:

Step 1: The dentist will begin by disinfecting the entire teeth. 

Step 2: They will then apply an acidic gel on your tooth or the molars. This gel will help keep the sealant well-bonded to your tooth’s enamel. 

Step 3: After the gel settles, they will immediately apply the sealant.

Step 4: The dentist will finish the process using a blue light that will harden the sealant. 

When You Should Get This Treatment

If you plan to get your kid’s teeth sealed, the best time is the earliest possible. The recommended time for kids is when they get their second set of permanent molars, which usually happens between ages 11 and 14. 

If you are already an adult considering getting the service, it is never too late for you. You can have dental sealants any time you want. 

Conclusion

Kids and teens are more prone to getting tooth decay, so parents need to teach and remind their children to keep their oral health intact. Apart from regular brushing and flossing, it is crucial to have their teeth checked by their dentist every year. If your kids love eating too many sweets and will need more teeth protection, dental sealants are always an excellent option to try. It is an inexpensive procedure that can help you save money by keeping you off teeth problems later. 

Regular teeth cleaning services can also protect your child from cavities and tooth decay. For your dental cleaning needs in Edmonton, visit us at Edmonton Smiles. We will ensure that your kids get the proper oral preventive care they need. Call us at 587-410-5907 for more information.

Posted in Dental News & Advice