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As a parent, you're always looking for ways to protect your child's health, and that includes their oral health. Dental sealants are a simple, non-invasive treatment offered by Dr. Angie Sage at Alamo Heights Pediatric Dentistry. These protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, acting as a barrier against decay-causing bacteria. Dental sealants are especially crucial for children, whose brushing skills may not be fully developed.
Children are prone to cavities for several reasons, including the fact that they might not be as diligent about brushing and flossing as adults. Dental sealants add an extra layer of protection to your child's teeth, which can significantly reduce the risk of cavities. They are a cost-effective preventive measure that can save your child from expensive and potentially painful dental treatments in the future. Plus, the procedure is quick, painless, and can be done during a regular dental check-up.
Dental sealants can reduce the risk of decay by nearly 80% in molars.
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Dental sealants act as a shield, preventing food particles and bacteria from settling into the crevices of your child's teeth. They are particularly beneficial for the back teeth, which are more susceptible to decay due to their location and structure.
Once applied, dental sealants can protect your child's teeth for years. They endure the regular wear and tear of chewing, and their effectiveness can be maintained with regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices.
The process of applying dental sealants is straightforward and painless. There's no drilling or removal of tooth structure, making it a stress-free experience for your child. Plus, sealants are completely safe and do not interfere with normal chewing.
First, our San Antonio pediatric dentist will clean the teeth that are getting sealants. The goal is to make sure the teeth are super clean before starting. After the cleaning, she’ll place a cotton around the teeth to keep them dry. Then, she’ll put a special solution on the teeth to make the sealant stick better.
Next, Dr. Sage will paint a liquid sealant onto the teeth. This sealant fills in the little grooves and pits in the teeth and forms a protective layer. The sealant is liquid at first but then it hardens and becomes strong. Some sealants harden on their own, while others need a special light that Dr. Sage will use to make them solid.
After the sealant is applied, Dr. Sage will check to make sure your child's bite feels normal and that the sealant isn’t too thick. She’ll also make sure the sealant has covered the right spots on the teeth. Dr. Sage might also give your child some tips about what foods to avoid for a little while, just to make sure the sealant stays strong.