The dental care your child receives when they’re young will impact their health when they’re older. Dental sealants are one procedure your children’s dentist may recommend—and for a good reason. Here is a guide to what they are and what benefits they offer, so you can decide if they’re right for your child.

What Are Sealants?

Dental sealants are protective coatings that are applied to your child’s teeth in a dental office. Made from dental plastics or similar materials, sealants are often used on the back molars and other teeth that are susceptible to tooth decay. The sealant blocks food matter and bacteria from coming into contact with your teeth, preventing the erosion of enamel. Applying sealants is fast, simple, and safe when done by an experienced children’s dentist, and it’s pain-free for your child. After cleaning and etching the teeth, the dentist will apply the sealant material to the tooth and use a curing light to allow it to harden.

Why Should Your Child Get Them?

Children aren’t the most thorough or attentive with their dental care, which can allow bacteria to eat away at their enamel. Sealants, when applied as soon as the child’s permanent teeth have erupted, prevent up to 50% of cavities for four years after application, which gives children time to perfect their dental care habits. In a study, it was found that children between the ages of 6 and 11 who didn’t have dental sealants had three times as many cavities as those who did. Sealants can also be used when early signs of decay are present, such as patchy discoloration on the tooth, to prevent the situation from progressing into an actual cavity. They wear away naturally, so they won’t need to be removed by a professional, and there’s no known risk associated with sealants, other than the rare chance of an allergic reaction.

Alaska Dentistry for Kids in Anchorage offers advanced dental care for your children, including the precise application of dental sealants. Their office is designed for kids to enjoy, boasting stuffed animals, an interactive toothbrushing station, and a friendly staff. Their dental care skills range from a simple cleaning and sealant application to advanced full mouth reconstruction. Learn more about their dental services online, and call (907) 274-2525 to schedule an appointment today.