It’s no secret that parents worry about their children, and kids’ health and wellness is probably most parents’ No. 1 worry. If there was a way to prevent kids from needing painful procedures down the road, most parents would happily take advantage of it. The good news is, when it comes to oral health, there is a scientifically proven way to protect the teeth of school-aged children from cavities and decay!
Dental sealants have been shown to reduce the risk of tooth decay by close to 80 percent in molars, where nooks and crannies make them especially prone to problems. Unfortunately, the CDC reports that only 43 percent of children ages 6 to 11 have received sealants, and those who haven’t have three times more cavities than those who have had the simple treatment.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are extremely thin, plastic coverings that are painted on the surface of the molars to protect teeth that are prone to decay. Both children and adults are candidates for sealants, but it’s best to get them as soon as the first molars appear around age 6 and then again at age 12 when the next set of molars emerge. This saves the pain of having cavities filled along with money spent on lengthy procedures later down the road.
How Does the Application Work?
At Dr. Abelar’s office, the procedure is quick and pain-free. The teeth are cleaned and dried, and then the sealant is painted on. In only a few minutes the material hardens as it dries with the help of a special blue light. Sealants typically last for years before needing to be replaced, but coming in regularly for cleanings and exams is the best way to ensure teeth are always protected.
If you’re due for a cleaning, call our office today at 858-866-9692 to schedule an appointment.
