Children’s smiles are the adult smiles of the future, and it’s an important time to stress the importance of good dental hygiene and preventative care. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and the 2022 theme is around children’s dental sealants. Our dental team is jumping on board with the theme and spreading awareness about cavity protection treatment with dental sealants in St. Charles.
Usually applied to permanent molars within six months of erupting, dental sealants offer extra protection in places that average brushing might miss. Applied to the chewing surfaces of permanent molars, dental sealants are protective coatings that prevent bacteria and decay from developing in “cavity-prone” pits on the molar’s chewing surfaces.
What Are The Benefits of Dental Sealants?
● Make brushing more efficient
● Prevents bacteria and acids from settling in the deep, narrow grooves on children’s teeth
● Lowers the chance of developing cavities in later childhood
● Comfortable and fast application
● Protection begins immediately after sealants are applied
Reasons Children Should Get Dental Sealants
Cleaning the chewing surfaces of molars can be very difficult, if not impossible. Tight spots can be so small that toothbrush bristles cannot reach, and it can create problem areas that often go unnoticed until it’s too late. These tiny spots can eventually lead to demineralization and active cavities, but sealants can help.
When children’s dental sealants are applied, it makes it easier for the toothbrush to remove any particles that might otherwise get stuck. By giving your child’s teeth an extra barrier of protection, sealants prevent harmful plaque and bacteria from growing.
What to Expect During Sealant Application
Usually placed by one of our dental hygienists, It is easy and painless for children to have dental sealants applied. In fact, children’s dental sealants are usually placed during a normal cleaning appointment.
After a thorough cleaning, the child’s teeth will be dried to ensure the sealant makes a complete bond. Then, the hygienist will apply the sealant and complete the curing process with a UV light.
In only a few minutes, your child’s teeth will reap the benefits of sealants that will last for years. Just be sure to any super sticky foods, which could pull the sealants off since they aren’t the same as fillings.
Dental Insurance Will Cover Most Sealants
Although you’ll want to double-check with your insurance company, most children’s dental sealants are covered at 100%. Since sealants are highly effective at fighting tooth decay, children up to the age of 14 are often covered.
Get Sealants Now
National Children’s Dental Health Month is the perfect time to reduce your child’s risk of cavities and help give them a healthy smile, and sealants make sense. Call our St. Charles children’s dentist today to schedule your child’s next checkup and find out if they’re eligible for sealants. We’re accepting new patients, and our child-friendly staff is ready to make sure your child’s smile lasts a lifetime.
