We all know that when a tooth is lost due to tooth decay, it can have major consequences on your child’s dental health as well as self-confidence. Tooth loss can interfere with their nutrition, their speech, and their social interaction. We always encourage our patients to floss daily and brush twice a day to help protect their teeth and gums. However, that is not always enough. That is why dental sealants are a great way to prevent tooth decay.
What are dental sealants? Well, dental sealants are a thin, protective coating that adheres to the chewing surface of your child’s back teeth. They have been around for decades. Here at Canyon Creek Dentistry, we encourage children to get sealants to help cavities from forming. Sealants have been shown to reduce the risk of decay by nearly 80% in molars. And, according to the CDC, “school-age children without sealants have almost three times more cavities than children with sealants.”
So how effective are sealants in preventing tooth decay? Once applied, sealants protect against 80% of cavities for 2 years and continue to protect against 50% of cavities for up to 4 years.
How do they work? Well, we apply these resin or glass-like material coatings to the pits and crevices of your child’s teeth (especially molars) to help prevent the buildup of bacterial plaque in areas where bacteria tend to thrive. And, the best part is that it is a simple and pain-free process. First, we brush the liquid sealant onto the teeth’s surface and then use a special curing light to harden the sealant and create a durable seal.
We strive to prevent tooth decay in children. If you are thinking about getting dental sealants in Temple, Texas for your child, call us here at Canyon Creek Dentistry and schedule an appointment, today!