Everyone has heard about dentistry for dental sealant but few are probably aware of what sealants are and why they are important. Before delving into the specifics it must be mentioned that sealants are a fantastic way of protecting the teeth from developing cavities early in life.
Dental sealants have proven themselves to be extremely effective in preventing cavities among young children developing permanent teeth. Their application is now considered as a universally assumed treatment.
Are Sealants Necessary?
It is extremely important to know why sealants are necessary before trying to understand what they can do. A cavity can form in different parts of the tooth such as:
- In the grooves of the biting surfaces.
- Between two teeth.
- On the smooth exterior and interior surfaces.
- On the edges, if it is a front tooth.
Among the different parts of the tooth where cavities can develop the grooves of the biting surfaces and between the teeth are the most common. Sealants are generally applied on the biting surfaces of the molars.
The molars which are the back teeth and the premolars have an anatomy that is unique with pits and fissures providing cavity-causing bacteria to conveniently hide in these difficult to reach areas. They can multiply and destroy the surface of the tooth over time to cause a cavity.
When the sealants are applied to the deep pits and fissures they act as sealing material to prevent the development of cavities.
When Should Dental Sealants Be Applied?
Dental sealants are recommended for children as their permanent molars begin to erupt. It is common to note that the permanent molars erupt predictably and therefore the sealants are often applied four at a time in a couple of appointments spread over six years.
- The first application is around the age of six when four teeth of the six-year molars are sealed.
- The second application is around the age of 12 when four teeth of the 12-year molars are sealed.
Some dentists may suggest even the premolars be sealed if they have particularly deep pits. The procedure for applying sealants is painless, requires no drilling or needles. The process begins by etching the surfaces of the tooth with a solution that cleanings and prepares the tooth structure macroscopically. The tooth will be cleaned and allow to dry with a cotton swab placed around it.
Before applying the sealant the professional must ensure the tooth is dry failing which the application will not be successful. After the tooth has been dried completely the dental professional applies the sealing material to the pits and fissures of the tooth before removing any excess material and using a specialized light to harden the application. After the sealants have been applied, the dentist or the dental hygienist will ensure the sealant does not interfere with the patient’s bite.
Can Children Tolerate Sealants Appropriately?
Children are believed to be difficult patients to manage as they are uncooperative with the dentist or any other medical professional. Getting a child to cooperate during the application is important as they are unwilling to sit still with an open mouth. This problem often affects the drying out of the tooth leading to failure of the application. Therefore the child must be taken to a pediatric dentist who has the professional expertise to manage them appropriately.
Sealants are an excellent method to prevent the development of cavities in the early stages when permanent teeth are erupting. Technically, anyone can have sealants applied but they are particularly helpful for children who may not have proper oral hygiene habits leaving them susceptible to tooth decay and cavities. Regardless of the case, it must be remembered that dental sealants can ensure your child’s teeth will have an additional layer of protection against decay.
If your child needs dental sealants and is anxious about visiting any medical professional it is suggested that you get the dental sealant therapy in Scottsdale where a pediatric dentist will be overlooking the application to ensure comfort for the child and you can prevent cavities as best possible. Children with dental sealants on their teeth are less likely to suffer from problems like tooth decay than the children without them. If you have any questions about the application you can contact the clinic specified and get the sealants your child needs without delays.