What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants in Greater St. Louis are a quick, painless, and highly effective preventive dental treatment designed to protect teeth from cavities. Sealants are thin plastic coatings that act as a barrier against food particles and bacteria. They are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These teeth are most prone to cavities due to their grooves and pits, which can trap food and are harder to clean with brushing alone.
Dental sealants prevent plaque and acids from damaging tooth enamel by sealing these vulnerable areas. Think of them as a shield for your child’s teeth, ensuring they stay safe, healthy, and decay-free.
The Importance of Dental Sealants for Kids
Cavities are one of the most common dental issues among children, with the CDC reporting that about 20% of children aged 5-11 have at least one untreated cavity. Left unchecked, cavities can lead to pain, infection, and more costly dental procedures.
Dental sealants serve as a proactive solution. Studies have shown that sealants can reduce the risk of cavities in molars by nearly 80%. This simple and effective measure gives parents peace of mind and helps children avoid unnecessary dental problems.
At Little Smiles of Washington, we aim to stop cavities before they start. Dental sealants are crucial in achieving this goal while promoting lifelong oral health.
How Is the Dental Sealant Process Done?
Applying a dental sealant is a simple and quick process that your child will find comfortable and stress-free. Here’s what you can expect during your appointment at our Washington, Hazelwood, and Dardenne Prairie offices:
- Cleaning the Teeth: We thoroughly clean the chewing surfaces to remove food debris or bacteria.
- Drying and Prepping: Once cleaned, the teeth are dried, and an etching gel is applied to create a rougher surface. This helps the sealant adhere better to the tooth.
- Placing the Sealant: We carefully paint the sealant material onto the tooth’s surface. It flows into the grooves and pits, creating a perfectly protective layer.
- Curing: A special curing light hardens the sealant, ensuring it bonds securely to the tooth.
Final Check: We’ll ensure the sealant is properly applied and your child’s bite feels comfortable.
Aftercare for Dental Sealants
Caring for your child’s dental sealants is easy. Please encourage them to follow their regular oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and rinsing with water after meals.
Our dentists will examine the sealants during regular check-ups to ensure they remain intact. Sealants can last several years, but occasional reapplication may be necessary to maintain effectiveness.
Benefits of Dental Sealants in Greater St. Louis
Here’s why dental sealants are a must-have for protecting your child’s teeth:
- Cavity Prevention: Reduce the risk of cavities by up to 80%.
- Painless Protection: Non-invasive procedure that’s quick and stress-free for kids.
- Cost-Effective: Prevents the need for expensive restorative treatments later on.
- Long-Lasting: Provides durable protection for several years with proper care.
- Promotes Lifelong Habits: Sets the foundation for healthy dental habits and a cavity-free smile.
At Little Smiles of Washington, we prioritize your child’s oral health. Dental sealants are one of the best investments you can make in their smile, saving them from pain, discomfort, and future dental problems.
Dental Sealants in Greater St. Louis
Don’t wait for cavities to impact your child’s health and happiness. Please schedule an appointment with Little Smiles of Washington today to learn more about dental sealants and how they benefit your child. Together, we can ensure your child’s smile stays bright and healthy for years.