Nearly 60% of children around the age of 6-11 years experience tooth decay leading to pain, infection and swelling.
Most of this decay occurs in the molar teeth, where traditional brushing and flossing often fall short of reaching the deep crevices and grooves.
Dental sealants are being used for cavity prevention and it is emerging as one of the most effective and non- invasive procedures in combating cavities in children.
Many parents remain unaware of this simple preventive measure or harbour misconceptions about the safety and necessity, that prevents their children from receiving this treatment.
What are dental sealants and Why are they used for children
Dental sealants represent a targeted approach to preventing tooth decay in areas where children are most vulnerable- The chewing surfaces of the back molar teeth.
The sealant material, bonds to the deep grooves and fissures of molars and premolars and acts as a protective coating, creating a smooth barrier, that prevents bacteria and food particles from settling into spaces that toothbrush bristles simply cannot reach.
The timing of sealant application aligns with a critical period in children’s dental development, when permanent molars first erupt, typically around the age of 6 and around the age of 12.
What are the materials used?
1. Composite resin
2. Glass ionomer cement
These materials are perfectly safe and do not affect the teeth in any way
How long do the sealants last?
Sealants can remain intact for several years, but its important to check them during the routine dental check-ups
In case your sealant is broken or worn out, you need to get it replaced or repaired immediately.
Benefits of getting dental sealants
1. Prevents tooth decay by protecting the chewing surfaces and vulnerable areas of teeth.
2. Creates a smooth surface covering the fissured area without compromising the aesthetics.
3. Reduces the need for dental fillings and dental crowns in the future.
4. Helps reduce the frequency of cavities in children and teenagers who are more likely to have developed them due to difficulty in cleaning back teeth.
5. It is less expensive than fillings or crowns, which leads to long-term savings on dental treatments.
Visit Prakash Dental Care so that You can make informed decision that could spare your child from years of dental problems and associated cost.
