Dental Sealants: Protecting Children's Smiles from Cavities

As a parent, you want to do everything possible to protect your child’s smile. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups go a long way, but sometimes kids need an extra layer of protection against cavities. That’s where dental sealants come in.

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. These teeth have tiny grooves and pits where food and bacteria can easily get trapped, even with good brushing habits. Sealants protect these areas by creating a smooth surface that is easy to keep clean and minimizing places cavity bacteria can hide.

Children are especially prone to cavities for a few reasons:

• They are still learning how to brush and floss.
• Their back teeth are harder for them to reach and clean thoroughly.
• They often enjoy snacks and sweets that fuel cavity-causing bacteria.

Applying sealants soon after the permanent molars come in (around ages 6 to 12) can significantly reduce the risk of decay during those cavity-prone years.

The process of getting sealants is simple, painless, and doesn’t require any drilling or numbing.

They are a cost-effective way to prevent cavities and many dental insurance plans cover them. Preventing cavity-related dental treatment can also save you time, stress and money over time.

Dental sealants give your child’s teeth protection during the years they need it most. If your child hasn’t had sealants yet, ask about them at their next dental visit. We will be happy to let you know if they are ready for this extra layer of protection.

KN Dentistry – Orange, CA – (714) 633-2562

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