Are Sealants Right for My Child?

Laying the groundwork for an effective and committed oral care routine early is a crucial part of establishing a good daily dental routine for your child to avoid teeth decay and gum disease. In addition to a good at-home routine, you can also further prevent cavities in your child’s teeth with dental sealants. But are sealants right for your child? Find out with Dr. Gary Wiest at Provo Dental in Provo, UT.

What is a dental sealant? 
Sealants are a super-thin layer of plastic coating placed onto the chewing surfaces of a molar. Molars have naturally-occurring deep crevices which collect decay-causing bacteria. The sealant fills in these deep spots, giving the tooth more surface area and making it easier to clean and less likely to trap food particles or bacteria. The procedure is fast and painless, over in just a few minutes and providing priceless protection against teeth decay. Sealants can last a few years and may need to be retouched by the dentist. While sealants are most popular for children, teens and adults can also benefit from having them placed.

Does my child need sealants? 
Everyone can benefit from sealants, no matter their situation. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research recommends applying the sealant as soon as the permanent molars erupt through the gums. This protects the teeth right out of the gate, helping to fend off decay before it even occurs. In addition to sealing the molars, your dentist may recommend placing sealants on other teeth with deep pits or grooves.

Dental Sealants in Provo, UT 
The procedure for sealants begins with your dentist thoroughly cleaning and drying the tooth. Cotton placed around the tooth helps keep it dry throughout the procedure. An etching solution placed onto the tooth slightly roughens the tooth to help in the bonding process. Then, your dentist rinses and dries the tooth and brushes the liquid sealant onto the tooth. The sealant hardens, sometimes with the help of a special light, and the sealant is permanently in place.

For more information on dental sealants, please contact Dr. Gary Wiest at Provo Dental in Provo, UT. Call 801-374-8205 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Wiest today!