Sealants
According to national data, 78% of children in the United States
have experienced tooth decay by the age of 17. Believe it or not,
as much as 90% of decay occurs in school age children! The teeth
that are at the highest risk are the permanent first and second
molars where fluoride has its least protective effect on the pits
and fissures of those teeth. The American Dental Association and
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recognize that sealants can
play an important role in the prevention of tooth decay.
ARE YOUR CHILD’S TEETH PROTECTED? – NOT WITHOUT SEALANTS!
A dental sealant is a thin coating that is applied to the biting
surfaces of the back teeth. Sealants fill in the pits and fissures
of those molars and premolars. This helps keep food particles and
plaque off of the deep grooves of the teeth. Sealants form a smooth
surface that is easy to clean. However, the covering is only for
the biting surface of the tooth – areas on the sides and between the
teeth cannot be coated with sealants. Therefore, good oral hygiene,
flossing, and a good diet are still very important in preventing decay
next to these sealants or areas unable to be covered.
HOW ARE SEALANTS APPLIED?
The application of sealants is very fast, easy and painless! First, a
solution is applied to the chewing surface of the tooth to prepare the
enamel and help it to bond with the sealant material. Next, the tooth
is washed and dried. Then, the sealant is applied using a tiny brush and
then hardened with a visible blue light. The sealants can last many
years. During every dental visit, our doctors and hygienists will check
the condition of the sealant(s) and advise you if additional sealants
are needed.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY CHILD’S SEALANTS?
Your child should avoid chewing foods and candy that can fracture the
sealant. Do not allow your child to chew on ice or eat hard candy or
very sticky foods. Examples of foods to avoid are taffy, Now and Laters,
and Jolly Ranchers.
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New Location Opening in Fall
Our new office at Cedar Crest will be open on October 5, 2010.