Children can be susceptible to developing cavities for various reasons, such as eating sugary treats or using improper brushing habits. Dental sealants provide added protection against cavities by forming a protective barrier over the chewing surface of molars so food and bacteria cannot get trapped. Dr. Greg Blome and Dr. Sara Wubbels, the skilled family dentists at Blome Family Dentistry in Lincoln, NE, can protect your child's smile against cavities with dental sealants.
How Dental Sealants Help
Dental sealants are an excellent way to help prevent cavities in kids. They are often applied to the molars, which can be more prone to cavities. Molars have a large surface area with many pits and grooves where bacteria can easily hide and be missed when brushing. Lingering bacteria can eventually lead to cavities. Dental sealants form a smooth, protective barrier over the chewing surface of molars so bacteria and food particles cannot get trapped in these pits and grooves. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that dental sealants effectively prevent about 80 percent of the cavities that would otherwise develop in the molars.
Applying Dental Sealants
One of the friendly family dentists at our office in Lincoln, NE, can quickly and easily apply dental sealants to your child's teeth in just one dental appointment. The teeth are thoroughly cleaned first to ensure nothing gets trapped beneath the sealants. After the teeth have been cleaned, a liquid sealant material is brushed on the chewing surface of the molars or other vulnerable teeth. A special light is used to harden and dry the sealant material. Once dry, the sealant provides a protective barrier that keeps cavity-causing bacteria from adhering to teeth.
Caring for Dental Sealants
Dental sealants can be cared for in the same way the teeth are, through good oral hygiene habits. Kids should continue their same oral hygiene routine and brush with a fluoride-containing toothpaste at least twice daily. Flossing once in the evening before bed helps as well. Visiting the dentist regularly is also important so the sealants can be checked to ensure they are still intact. Dental sealants can wear down over time. During a dental exam, the dentist will be able to determine if any of your child's dental sealants need to be reapplied.
Dental sealants could benefit your child by helping prevent cavities. To protect your child's smile with dental sealants, schedule an appointment with Dr. Blome or Dr. Wubbels, our skilled family dentists, by calling Blome Family Dentistry in Lincoln, NE, at (402) 483-7000.