Decay of the tooth is one of the most prevalent dental conditions among children. Although kids brush their teeth every day, there are certain areas of the mouth that are not easy to clean than others. The posterior teeth, particularly the molars, have deep fissures which tend to accumulate food particles and bacteria.
This is where pediatric dental sealants can help. Sealants are a very thin coating which is put on the chewing surface of some teeth. This forms a smooth surface which makes it difficult for food particles and harmful bacteria to get trapped in the small pits and fissures of the teeth.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are plastic materials that are applied on the molars in the mouth. Molars play an important role in the chewing process and usually have deep grooves on their surface.
The sealant is applied on the surface of the grooves and helps create a protective shield around the tooth. This does not mean that you should stop brushing, flossing, or visiting the dentist. It only means that there is an additional shield on some parts that are hard for children to clean.
These dental sealants are commonly applied on molars, but the dentist may recommend applying them to other types of teeth.
Why Are Children’s Molars More Likely to Develop Cavities?
Molars have irregular surfaces. They are made of grooves for breaking down food, and these grooves can become a home for food particles and plaque.
Children might not be able to reach the far back corners of their mouth during brushing sessions. Plaque can linger in the grooves even when the child brushes.
Eventually, the bacteria in plaque use sugar from foods and beverages to produce acids that weaken the enamel and create cavities.
Sealants can reduce this risk because they seal the places where plaque is most likely to stick.
How Do Sealants Help Prevent Tooth Decay?
Sealants are primarily useful because they create a barrier between the teeth and anything that may lead to cavities.
There are several ways through which sealants may work: they cover any grooves which may allow food to get lodged; they simplify maintenance of the chewing surface; and they ensure limited interaction of tooth enamel with bacteria and food particles. All these contribute to making it difficult for cavities to develop in the sealed area of the tooth.
The covering does not protect the tooth from being attacked by cavities. Cavities may still form in other areas of the tooth.
When Are Dental Sealants Usually Applied?
Sealants can be considered once the child’s first permanent molars emerge.
The first permanent molars typically emerge when the child is at school age, and another set comes out some years down the road. Once this occurs, applying sealants at the time of emergence of these teeth can help protect them since the child is still learning the right way to brush.
But there is no definite age for all children. The dentist can consider other factors like the tooth’s morphology, previous cavities, hygiene and risk of cavities before deciding on sealants.
What Happens During the Sealant Process?
It is typically very straightforward and does not involve drilling since it is applied to an otherwise healthy tooth.
Initially, the tooth will be cleaned and dried. Another material might be applied to the tooth temporarily to allow for proper bonding of the sealant. This will then be washed away and the tooth will again be dried before applying the sealant.
A specialized light may be used to harden the sealant. Once completed, the child should now be able to use the tooth like any other.
It generally takes a few minutes to complete the procedure for each tooth.
Do Dental Sealants Last Forever?
No. They can last for many years but they can slowly wear out over time due to chewing action.
In the process of regular dental examination, the dentist can see if there are any parts that have not been protected by the sealant. In case some of it is wearing out, it can be restored or replaced.
Such regular dental checkups are needed because the worn-out sealant will no longer protect your teeth.
Are Sealants Enough to Stop All Cavities?
Although sealants are useful, they are just one element of cavity prevention.
Kids should brush their teeth at least two times daily using fluoride toothpaste, floss between their teeth according to advice, avoid consuming foods and drinks containing sugar too often, and visit the dentist regularly.
It is also necessary for parents to assist younger children in brushing their teeth until they become capable of cleaning all parts of their mouths alone.
Sealants perform effectively in combination with good oral hygiene and proper nutrition.
Conclusion
Dental sealants can be quite helpful in protecting kids’ rear molars from any damage caused by food particles and bacteria by forming an effective shield around their surfaces.
It is possible for parents to consult a Pediatric Dentist Cedar Park about their child's eligibility for sealants. The advice may vary depending on a number of factors including the age of the child, oral hygiene practices, teeth structure and dental history.
Brushing, flossing and dental visits should never be substituted by sealants. However, sealants can become an additional measure which will help kids have healthy teeth as they grow older.
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