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Maintaining healthy teeth is pivotal for optimal oral health, particularly for children, and lays the foundation for lifelong dental wellness. While adhering to a nutritious diet and practicing thorough oral hygiene are fundamental, additional protective measures can significantly enhance dental health. The family dentist in Valley Village, CA, and their dedicated team of professional champions make use of dental sealants as a proactive approach to preventing oral issues in children. Dive into our insightful blog to discover the advantages of dental sealants and ascertain whether they are the ideal solution for safeguarding your child’s oral health
What are dental sealants?
Sealants consist of a transparent, thin varnish that is carefully applied to the chewing surfaces of the posterior teeth, including the premolars and molars. This liquid substance can effectively penetrate the deep pits and grooves of the teeth, creating a seamless seal. This barrier acts as a protective shield, warding off plaque and harmful bacteria, thereby thwarting the onset of decay.
Why are dental sealants used?
Dental sealants find application in the following conditions:
- Pits and fissures of deciduous, and permanent teeth in young children
- People with an increased risk of caries
- Pits and fissures of permanent teeth in adolescents and teenagers
- Pits and grooves of permanent teeth in adults
- Incipient caries lesions in children, adolescents, and adults
- Teeth that are not accessible to regular brushing and flossing
How do sealants benefit oral health?
Dental sealants are popular among pediatric patients since they provide the following versatile benefits.
- They are easy to apply
- Sealant application is less time-consuming
- The sealant application does not require any tooth preparation, thus preserving the natural tooth structure
- A dental sealant is an affordable material
- The sealant is easy to maintain
- A sealant significantly reduces deep grooves
- Applying a sealant is a painless, and simple procedure
- Sealants are long-lasting with an excellent success rate
How are dental sealants applied?
The process of applying sealants is easy, quick, and painless. The following steps are involved:
- Tooth isolation:
This involves moisture control which is a crucial aspect of sealant application. Inadequate isolation leads to compromise in sealant retention. A rubber dam, cotton rolls, suction, and evacuation tips are used.
- Acid etching:
Here 37% orthophosphoric acid is used in the form of a gel. This is applied and cured with a suitable UV light for 15 for permanent molars, and 15 to 30 seconds for primary/deciduous molars. The tooth surface is then rinsed with water and air-dried to achieve a frosty opaque appearance.
- Sealant placement and curing:
Sealant is applied using a dispenser and allowed to flow into the pits and fissures.
Opting for dental sealants is a simple and economical step toward protecting your teeth. While advantageous for individuals across all age groups, children, in particular, can reap substantial benefits from this preventive measure.
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