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Dental sealants for kids are an excellent solution for keeping your child’s teeth healthy with a single minimally invasive procedure. However, they may not be right for every child. As you decide whether to ask a pediatric dentist about whether your little one should get dental sealants, it’s important to learn more about them. 

What Are Dental Sealants? 

As a preventative dentistry treatment, dental sealants for kids consist of a film, usually made from plastic, that coats the top of their teeth and fits their precise shape. The sealant acts as a shield against food remnants, tartar, and plaque so that cavities are less likely to develop. It’s not a substitute for brushing and flossing twice a day, but rather a supplemental measure that offers additional cost-effective protection. 

dental sealants for kidsThe procedure is simple and takes place after a dentist provides a professional teeth cleaning. Then, they apply a solution to the teeth that bonds the sealant to the enamel. Finally, the sealant is spread over the top of the teeth. It either hardens by itself or by a curing light. 

How Do You Know If Your Child Is a Candidate? 

It’s ideal for children to get them between the ages of 6 and 14, or whenever their permanent teeth arrive. Those are also the ages in which children are learning about good oral hygiene and healthy eating, so they’re especially prone to making mistakes and developing cavities. Dental sealants for kids allow them to establish a healthy oral regimen, even when they sneak sweets here and there.

How Long Do They Last? 

With proper oral hygiene routines, including brushing and flossing for two minutes twice daily and possibly using mouthwash at least once a day, dental sealants typically last around 10 years. If your child visits a dentist every six months or so, the dental sealants can be cleaned or fixed if necessary, prolonging their lifespan. Sealants can be reapplied anytime they wear off. 

 


To talk more with a knowledgeable pediatric dentist about dental sealants for kids and whether your child is ready for them, contact Discovery Dental in Eagle River, AK. Since 2013, they’ve operated with a commitment to providing quality treatment in a comfortable environment, and this includes applying dental sealants to your little one’s teeth. They’ll also offer other personalized, long-term, and emergency treatments throughout their childhood. Schedule an appointment today by calling (907) 622-5437 or view their services by visiting them online

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