When you’re a parent, you do everything you can to protect your child’s health. That’s why you should ask your dentist about sealants for your child’s teeth. While basic dental care and proper hygiene are certainly helpful when it comes to preventing cavities, if you truly want to prevent dental decay, applying a sealant is a good idea.

Cavities form when bacteria works its way into the teeth and eats away at the enamel.This bacteria is found in sugar, which is why it’s important to limit the amount of sweets your child consumes. They also need to learn how to brush their teeth thoroughly at a young age, so they can clean away any sugars that might otherwise remain on the teeth. These habits, along with regular trips to the dentist, are the key to avoiding cavities.

That said, there are additional steps you can take to provide your child with maximum protection. One of them involves applying a sealant to the teeth. The sealant is made of a composite material, similar to the type your family dentist uses for fillings. Typically, it’s either clear or colored to match the natural color of your child’s teeth. Before applying it, the dentist cleans the teeth thoroughly so the sealant will adhere to them. After the sealant is applied, it bonds to your child’s teeth, blocking bacteria from making its way into areas that can be difficult to clean. With a dental sealant, you’ll save your child from the discomfort of dental decay and save yourself money on dental care procedures like teeth fillings.

To learn more about dental sealants, get in touch with a professional and discuss whether or not they’re right for your children.

Looking for a dentist you can rely on in the Kenai, AK, area? Schedule an appointment with James Julien DDS. Contact the office online for more information, or call (907) 283-4857.