Did you know that tooth decay is the single most common chronic disease in children? It’s four times more common than early-childhood obesity and five times more common than asthma. Even though tooth decay is an incredibly widespread problem for growing smiles, it is preventable. At Allen Smile Design, we can help keep your child’s smile cavity-free with dental sealants. This safe, easy treatment can go a long way in protecting your little one’s teeth from plaque and bacteria. Call us today to learn more and schedule your son or daughter’s next appointment!
Children are particularly susceptible to cavities for several reasons. Not only are their teeth bombarded by harmful sugars contained in popular drinks and snacks for kids, but their enamel is weaker and they’re still learning how to properly brush and floss. Dental sealants for children are a resin-based solution that can be painted over the biting surface of your child’s teeth. Once hardened, the sealant acts as an invisible shield against plaque, bacteria, and acids that would otherwise burn through the enamel.
The American Dental Association recommends dental sealants for children between the ages of five to 14, when they’re at the highest risk of tooth decay. As you bring your son or daughter in for their biannual dental checkups and cleanings, your Allen children’s dentist will keep a close eye on the health and strength of their teeth. Typically, dental sealants are recommended once the first permanent molars come in between the ages of five and seven. Later on, when their second set of permanent molars comes in around the ages of 11 or 14, another set of dental sealants may be encouraged to minimize your teen’s risk of tooth decay.
Placing dental sealants is a quick and easy way to dramatically lower your child’s risk of cavities for many years to come! First, your child’s teeth will be gently yet thoroughly cleaned to remove any lingering particles. Next, the resin-based sealant is painted onto the chewing surface of the tooth. Once every groove and cranny have been covered, a special curing light is used to harden the sealant in place. The material bonds to the enamel and forms an invisible protective barrier around them.
Dental sealants for children have proven to be safe, durable, and effective when it comes to cavity prevention. While every dental insurance policy is different, most sealants are covered when applied early in life. Feel free to bring your insurance documentation with you to your child’s appointment and we’ll be happy to help you determine what is covered and how to make the most out of your benefits.
At Allen Smile Design, we are committed to helping smiles of all ages stop oral health issues like cavities before they even have a chance to begin. Call us today to discover if dental sealants are a good choice for your son or daughter!