Maintaining good oral health is vital for your child’s overall well-being and confidence. Dental sealants are a simple and effective way to safeguard teeth and reduce the risk of cavities. In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dental office, explains what dental sealants are as well as some other ways to protect your little one’s smile from tooth decay.
What Are Sealants?
This simple preventative treatment involves the placement of a plastic resin that is applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. Typically used on molars and premolars, they act as a barrier against bacteria and food particles that could lead to decay by getting trapped in hard-to-clean spaces. They are specifically designed to bond to the natural grooves and contours of the teeth.
A Simple Application Process
The process of applying sealants is quick and painless! Here are the simple steps involved:
- The teeth to be sealed are carefully cleaned to remove any plaque or debris.
- Cotton or other absorbent material is used to keep the teeth dry during the procedure.
- A mild acidic solution is applied to the teeth’s chewing surfaces to create a rough texture, allowing the sealant to adhere better.
- The dental sealant is painted onto the enamel, filling the natural grooves and fissures.
- A special curing light hardens the sealant and ensures it firmly bonds to the tooth surface.
Caring for Dental Sealants
If you want your sealants to stay strong and continue protecting those vulnerable surfaces proper care is important. They can last into adulthood if:
- Regularly brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
- Refrain from biting down on hard objects like ice or hard candies, as this can damage the sealants.
- Visit us every six months for routine cleanings and to ensure the sealants are intact.
- At examinations we can check the condition of the sealants during your dental visits for any signs of wear or chipping that may require repairs.
Other Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay
While dental sealants offer significant protection against cavities, incorporating additional preventive measures into your oral hygiene routine is crucial. Limit the frequency of sugary snacks and drinks and choose a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fruits like apples and carrots can help remove plaque and sticky foods from tooth surfaces just by chewing them! So consider ending a meal with something fibrous! Fluoride treatments strengthen tooth enamel and make it more resistant to decay so at the next check-up make sure you get one!
Schedule You or Your Child’s Sealants Today!
Dental sealants offer a valuable defense against tooth decay, particularly in the hard-to-reach areas of molars or premolars. By undergoing this simple and painless procedure, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and maintain optimal oral health. If you would like to find out more about our preventive dental services, please contact our Ankeny, IA, dentist’s office at (515) 207-6182 to schedule a visit.
