Quick Talk: Dental Sealant Basics
You probably have a firm understanding at this point that dental sealants provide benefits for your children’s oral health. This is all well and good and sounds fantastic, of course. However, as a patient, what you really want and need is to understand what sealants will entail, why your child needs them, and what to expect! We would be pleased to walk you through the basics. Remember, if you have any additional questions, please bring them up the next time we see you (or you and your child) for dental care!
What’s A Sealant?
A dental sealant is a barrier. It’s as simple as that. It’s a barrier placed on back teeth (over chewing surfaces only) that nobody will see. Rest assured, of course, that we can detect them to keep an eye on them and suggest touchups if that becomes necessary. The barrier is made of plastic. It’s an ultra-slim coating that doesn’t let bacteria, food, or anything else come into contact with the highly-grooved chewing surfaces of back teeth.
Why Does My Child Need Sealants?
We encourage dental sealants for a variety of reasons. First, because it is a very simple way to keep chewing surfaces clean. Next, because your child isn’t ready to thoroughly clean those surfaces. Since they are often full of grooves, which trap bacteria and food, it’s unrealistic to think your kiddo can reach every last bit that gets stuck. Adults find this challenging, too! With sealants, the problem is stopped, so cavities in these places will not develop.
What Can We Expect?
A very simple process! We will clean the tooth, apply the sealant, cure (dry and harden) the sealant, and send you and your little one home. The dental sealant will then last up to 10 years!
Find Out Facts From Us Regarding Sealants
Remember that we are full of information! If you are interested in seeing our team to provide your child with sealants but have questions, please ask them. Call our Cleveland Family Dentistry office in Cleveland, TX, today at (281) 592-1234. We proudly serve patients and their families from Cleveland, Kingwood, New Caney, Conroe, Livingston, Huffman, and all surrounding communities.