Would Sealants Help My Child?

Would Sealants Help My Child?

Would you like to reduce your child's risk of developing cavities? Consider a trip to the dentist's office for sealants. Charlotte, NC, family dentists Dr. Susan Hockaday and Dr. Jim Baucom of Hockaday & Baucom, DDS explain how sealants can help your child avoid painful tooth decay.

What are sealants?

Sealants are plastic resin coatings that prevent cavities. The liquid sealant solution fills in small pits in the chewing surface of teeth. Although sealants are applied in liquid form, they harden in seconds, offering excellent protection against cavities.

How do sealants help reduce tooth decay?

The pre-molars and molars located at the back of your child's mouth are responsible for chewing. The uneven surface of these teeth makes it easier to grind up food before it's swallowed. Unfortunately, many of the pits that make chewing easier are so small that toothbrush bristles can't reach them. If plaque and bacteria can't be easily removed from those areas, your child may develop a cavity. When your son or daughter receives sealants, the liquid fills in and seals the pits, which prevents tooth decay.

Why do children need sealants?

Sealants are generally recommended after your child's secondary teeth emerge. These teeth grow in after your son or daughter loses baby teeth and are more susceptible to tooth decay when they first grow in. Adding sealants gives your child the extra protection they need to avoid cavities.

How often are sealants applied?

Sealants usually last about 10 years, but your children may need their sealants replaced sooner if they grind their teeth. Drs. Hockaday and Baucom will take a look at the sealants every time your child visits their Charlotte office and recommend reapplication of sealants if they've begun to wear away.

How are sealants applied?

Before your child receives sealants, an etching solution that helps the sealants adhere will be applied to the teeth. The sealants are then brushed on to the teeth and hardened with a curing light. The entire process only takes a few minutes and is completely pain-free.

Protect your child from tooth decay with sealants. Call Charlotte, NC, family dentists Dr. Susan Hockaday and Dr. Jim Baucom of Hockaday & Baucom, DDS at (704) 553-2348 to schedule your child's appointment.