There are dangerous agents of chaos that seek to wreak havoc on your child’s mouth, and they’re called bacteria. They lead to a host of problems that can plague your little one for life if not addressed, but what can you do to prevent this problem? Your dentist in Peabody recommends dental sealants. As you continue reading, he’ll explain how the process works to get them and why they’re so integral in your child’s oral health.
What is a Dental Sealant?
A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating painted on the chewing surfaces of your teeth. They are especially used for the back molars because they have a larger surface that’s used to grind food.
Here are the steps to the painless procedure:
- The tooth that will be sealed is first thoroughly cleaned.
- It will then be dried with cotton or another absorbent material.
- Next, an acid solution is applied to roughen the chewing surfaces so the sealant can bond to the tooth.
- The tooth is then rinsed and dried again.
- It’s now ready for the sealant to be painted on the enamel. A curing light may be used to harden the sealant.
This application will create a layer of defense against bacteria, but you still may be wondering if dental sealants are really that important for your child’s oral health.
How Dental Sealants Can Stop an Epidemic
Recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) show that school-age children between the ages of six and 11 without sealants have almost three times more first-molar cavities than those with sealants. Other studies from the CDC alarmingly reveal that the proportion of children with tooth decay in their primary teeth is steadily on the rise.
Dental sealants provide a way to put a serious dent in those numbers.
Other Ways to Prevent Cavities
Here are some other ways to prevent cavities and protect your little one’s ivories:
- Encourage your child to brush his or her teeth in the morning and in the evening. You can make a game of it or create a song that will help him or her to remember to maintain excellent oral hygiene practices.
- Try to limit grazing and snacking, especially on foods that are higher in sugar, because they are the first choice of sustenance for bacteria.
- Maintaining regular visits with your dentist is another key way to protect your little one from oral maladies. Your child will leave each visit with a clean and healthy mouth, teeth and gums.
These early years are very important because they will set the trend for the oral care for the rest of your child’s life. Your dentist is here to help you in every way to make this period of life as healthy and productive as possible.
So reach out to schedule an appointment for your kiddo today!
About the Author
Dr. Spiro Saati earned his dental degree from Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He is very active in several professional organizations, including a stint as chairperson, vice- chair and treasurer of the Northshore District Dental Society. Dr. Saati can be reached for more information through his website.