It’s important for your child’s teeth to be healthy and bright, but keeping them that way isn’t always easy. If your little one struggles with maintaining positive oral health, dental sealants for kids are a reliable, simple way to help. Below is a guide explaining what dental sealants for kids are and their benefits.

What Are They?

Dental sealants are a staple in preventative dentistry, especially for children. They form a protective coating over your child’s teeth, preventing cavity formation caused by sugar, bacteria, and plaque. Sealants come in liquid form and are brushed over the tooth’s surface, then set with a special light. Since they’re liquid, they conform to the tooth’s surface, covering the indentations and ridges that are more susceptible to cavities because they trap bacteria and food.

They’re applied to the teeth in the back of your child’s mouth, as they’re most used for chewing and are harder to clean. Dentists recommend that sealants should be applied as soon as your child’s molars come in, usually around 6 years of age for the baby teeth and 12 years for the permanent ones. It’s a simple, fast process, and they’ll only need to be touched up every few years.

Why Are They Important In Pediatric Dentistry?

Dental sealants for kids are critical to preserving the health of your child’s teeth. When applied early by a reliable pediatric dentist, they prevent years of damage that the tooth would otherwise encounter from wear, plaque, and acidic foods and drinks.

While adults can get sealants, too, they’re especially beneficial in children’s preventative dentistry. Kids are more prone to cavity development for several reasons, including difficulty remembering to brush, lack of attention when brushing, and consuming sweet treats. Damaged baby teeth could affect the alignment or health of their permanent teeth, so sealants will save you money and time on restorative treatments.

If you want to know more about dental sealants for kids, contact the pediatric dentist team at Discovery Dental in Eagle River, AK. They provide skilled pediatric dentistry services for infants through teens, including dental sealants. They prioritize your child’s comfort to ensure they grow to love the dentist, and they share their passion for healthy smiles with the community through their regular visits to schools. Learn more about their services online and call (907) 622-5437 to schedule your child’s appointment today.