Dental sealants: find out how they’re an important option in dental care.

What are dental sealants and how do they contribute to overall dental health care?

This is a great question, one that is often asked by parents wishing to provide their children with the best dental care possible. Dental sealants are applied to the back teeth of children, their molars and premolars, shortly after the teeth come in. This material is “painted on” and it protects teeth from bacteria that can cause decay, which leads to cavities.

Here is another question we’re often asked: how complicated is it to apply dental sealants?

The answer is that it isn’t complicated to apply sealants and it only takes a few minutes per tooth. First the dentist cleans the teeth and then slightly roughens them so that the sealant will adhere well. After it’s applied, the dentist may use a curing light to quickly harden the material. Typically, this material will need reapplied every few years, and can be done as part of your child’s ongoing dental care.

Sealants, though, are just part of an overall dental health care plan for your family.

It’s important that your children also:

• Brush their teeth completely twice a day using toothpaste with an American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance
• Floss every day
• Limit sugary snacks
• Schedule regularly dental health care appointments with their dentist

If you have any questions about sealants or your children’s overall dental care strategy, it’s important to discuss them with your dentist. A team approach works best!