Does My Child Need Sealants?

Would you like to reduce your child's chances of developing tooth decay? The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research says that you can if your child's dentist applies plastic sealants to his or her back teeth. Dr. Jamie Thurman-Taylor of TLC Family Dentistry in Lee's Summit uses plastic sealants in her practice of dentistry for children. Her goal is no cavities for any child under their care.

How tooth decay happens

Everyone harbors oral bacteria. This is just the normal condition of our mouths. However, some things increase the number and the action of bacteria. Accumulation of soft plaque and hard tartar is a prime example. When these "biofilms" build-up on teeth and at the gum line, tooth decay and gum disease result because of the corrosive action of oral bacteria.

Of course, many habits help prevent poor oral health. Dr.Thurman-Taylor and her team encourage their patients of all ages to brush twice a day and to floss daily according to American Dental Association guidelines. She also wants her patients to come to TLC Family Dentistry in Lee's Summit for both adult and children's check-ups and cleanings every six months. These preventive measures help preserve strong, vibrant smiles and systemic health, too.

The back teeth

Between the ages of six and twelve, your child loses his or her baby teeth and receives a beautiful set of permanent ones, including large, deeply grooved and pitted molars. These back teeth do the hard work of chewing, and they also tend to accumulate the most plaque and tartar because of their bumpy and craggy surfaces. Some of these pits and grooves are too tiny for toothbrush and floss to clean properly. That's where plastic sealants come in.

The role of plastic sealants

Liquid plastic sealants play an important role in Lee's Summit dentistry for children. The dentists at TLC Family Dentistry frequently advise them for children as inexpensive insurance against cavities.

The process of sealing a tooth takes just minutes, and starts with the dentist cleaning and drying the chewing surface of the tooth. Then, the doctor applies a mild etching solution which helps the sealant adhere to the tooth enamel. Next, the dentist applies the sealant in much the same way as polish is applied to a fingernail. Finally, the dentist hardens the sealant with a special ultraviolet light.​

Learn more

The next time you and your child come to TLC Family Dentistry, ask Dr. Thurman-Taylor about plastic sealants. For your routine appointments, contact the office in Lee's Summit serving Greenwood, MO, Lake Winnebago, MO, Pleasant Hill, MO, Raymore, MO, Belton, MO, Lone Jack, MO, and Harrisonville, MO at (816) 537-6161.