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Dental Sealants

One of the most effective ways to protect your child's teeth from decay is by having them treated with dental sealants. Dental sealants are liquid plastic resins that are applied to the surfaces of teeth with surface grooves (molars and pre-molars) to protect them from decay. Sealants are virtually invisible, very durable, and long lasting (anywhere from three to ten years).

Dental sealants are highly recommended for children and teenagers because most of the decay in these age groups appears early in grooved teeth. Sealants are first applied at about age six when the first permanent molars appear. They are reapplied at about age 12 after the second permanent molars erupt.

The application process is painless and takes only a few minutes. (It is important that children be able to sit still throughout the entire treatment.) Teeth are first cleaned with a special toothpaste and then treated with a substance that will help bond the sealant to the tooth. Finally, the sealant is brushed on and allowed to dry (about a minute).

Dental sealants are a safe, proven method of preventing cavities in children. When compared to the price of dental fillings, they are clearly a more cost-effective way to deal with the problem of tooth decay.

If you would like more information about dental sealants, call 936-756-3611 or send us an e-mail. To schedule an appointment, go to Make An Appointment now.

Source: American Dental Association (www.ada.org)