At What Age Should I See If My Child Will Need Braces?
An early evaluation does not always mean that your child will need braces immediately. Keep reading to find out when you should bring in your child for an initial orthodontic evaluation.
Consider These Benefits of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants provide a significant protective barrier against tooth decay, especially for molars and premolars, which often harbor food particles and bacteria because of their location and grooved surfaces.
The team at My Kidz Dentist in Phoenix, Arizona, helps parents and caregivers understand the benefits of dental sealants, so they can make informed decisions about their children’s oral healthcare.
1. Prevent tooth decay
Dental sealants act as a protective shield, covering the pits and fissures on the back teeth. These areas are particularly prone to accumulating food particles and plaque, which, if not thoroughly cleaned, lead to decay.
Sealants effectively prevent these deposits from settling on the tooth surface, significantly reducing the risk of cavities.
2. Cost-effective solution
Applying sealants is a straightforward, noninvasive, and affordable procedure. Compared to the cost of treating dental cavities, which may require fillings, crowns, or even root canals, sealants provide a cost-effective way to prevent dental problems.
Most dental insurance plans cover sealants for children and teenagers, recognizing their role in preventive dental care.
3. Long-term protection
Once applied, sealants offer a decade of protection, though regular dental check-ups are necessary to ensure they remain intact and effective. During these visits, our team can quickly repair sealants if they have chipped or worn down, extending their lifespan and ensuring ongoing protection against decay.
4. Ideal for children and teenagers
Children and teenagers are often at higher risk for cavities due to less consistent oral hygiene habits. Sealants are particularly beneficial for this age group because they protect the most vulnerable areas of the teeth during critical developmental years.
Applying sealants as soon as the permanent back teeth come in can help shield them from decay right from the start.
5. Supports overall oral health
By preventing decay and the complications that arise from cavities, sealants contribute to maintaining overall oral health. They help avoid the pain and discomfort associated with dental decay and the potential for more serious dental issues.
Maintaining healthy teeth can contribute to better general health, as oral health impacts overall well-being.
6. Quick and painless application
Applying sealants is a quick and painless process. First, we clean the tooth surface and prepare it with a special solution before applying the dental sealant material. The sealant is then hardened with a special light. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes per tooth and involves no pain, making it particularly suitable for young patients.
7. Reduces the need for future dental work
By preventing decay and protecting teeth from cavities, sealants can significantly reduce the need for future dental work. This preventative measure not only saves money but also helps individuals avoid the discomfort and time associated with more extensive dental procedures.
If you’re interested in dental sealants for your child, let us know during their next dental exam, call our office, or schedule an appointment online to learn more.
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