Dental Sealants

Dental sealants and the benefits for children

The molars in young children attract cavities like honey attracts bees. So why are the molars of young children so vulnerable to decay?

There are two main reasons. The first is because molars are used to chew food so they are constantly exposed to food mixed with saliva. The second is the position of the molars in the mouth. Because the molars are located in the back of the mouth, they are more difficult to clean and therefore more susceptible to decay.

Applying a dental sealant to the molars of your child is one way to keep them healthier. When your child is between the ages of 5 and 7 is the best time to have a dentist apply a dental sealant. The sealant is a thin layer of liquid that hardens and creates a barrier between the molars and the plaque, food particles, and bacteria that like to collect on them and eventually turn into decay.

Molars will begin to appear when a child is between the ages of 5 and 7, with a second set of molars coming in between the ages of 11 and 14. It’s best to have a sealant applied when the molars first come in to ensure the teeth are protected.

The procedure is relatively simple. It begins when an adhesive is applied to the molars. The sealant is then spread over the adhesive as a liquid. The liquid hardens, creating a protective barrier. Sealants last for about 10 years and can be reapplied as necessary.

Schedule your child for a dental sealant application today by calling Apopka Smiles at 407-788-6888.

Call us today 407-788-6888