Parents are meant to lead by example, which means having good dental care habits will rub off on your youngsters. In addition to proper brushing and flossing techniques, though, your child’s dentist might discuss the benefits of sealants during their next checkup. Here’s a closer look at how this treatment and how it benefits kids.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants serve as a coat of armor for teeth. Typically made of plastics, the clear or tooth-colored sealant is painted on enamel. The membrane serves as a barrier to keep food residue and bacteria from clinging to tooth surfaces and collecting in the crevices.

A dentist will first clean and dry your child’s teeth and then apply an acidic solution to help the sealant stick to the enamel. The sealant is painted on each tooth and then dried using a UV curing light.

How Do They Protect Children’s Dental Health?

When food residue is left to linger after eating, it mixes with bacteria in the mouth to form plaque. The sticky substance clings to enamel and the gumline, causing cavities to form. A sealant will prevent damaging residue from coating teeth and turning into the plaque that causes deterioration. 

Applying sealants is a long-term dental care solution to reduce your child’s risk of developing cavities. The coatings have been shown to stop 80% of cavities from developing the first two years and keep 50% of cavities at bay for up to four years. This means your child can avoid pain, cavity fillings, and other extensive treatment to restore their oral health.

For sealants and other preventive dental care solutions for your child, reach out to Lowitz & Meier in Cincinnati, OH. The practice provides family dentistry services to help Hamilton County kids avoid difficulty eating, breathing, and talking. Visit the office online for a list of dental care services the team offers and call (513) 521-8900 for an appointment today.