What Are Dental Sealants? How They Can Help Protect Your Child’s Teeth

Parents are always worried about their child’s oral health. It is necessary to explain your kids the importance of brushing and flossing right from an early age so that they can enjoy healthy teeth and gums even in adulthood. Kids love to have sugary stuff such as cupcakes, candies, chocolates, and what not. They are constantly at the risk of getting dental caries and infection. If you want an added protection for your child, dental sealants in Rexdale can help.

What Are Dental Sealants?

It’s a protective barrier, which is built on the chewing surface of the child’s permanent teeth. The sealant is plastic coating done on molars, so that there is a shield between the tooth surface and bacteria. The plastic coating fills the nooks and crannies of the teeth, so that food particles and bacteria can no more deposit on them.

When Should My Child Get Dental Sealants?

Children as young as 6 years of age can get the plastic coating done. Children get their first set of molars when they turn 6 and a second set by the age of 12. For protecting their teeth, it’s important to apply the sealants as soon as the teeth erupt.

The Application Process

It takes only one visit and hardly an hour for getting the procedure done. The dentist near you, will first clean and polish the teeth to make sure that there’s no plaque and debris. Then the teeth are allowed to dry followed by applying an acid layer on them. This roughens the surface for plastic coating to bond better. Then a bonding material is applied, followed by the plastic coating. A special light is used for hardening the surface. After an hour or so, your child can eat and drink normally.

The Efficacy of Dental Sealants

The sooner you get the coating applied, the more effective it is! Children with sealants are less prone to develop cavities than others. They can offer protection for up to 10 years, but you can get regular checkups done for touch ups if need be.