Dental Sealants in Pleasant View, UT
We genuinely believe in the importance of preventive care for lifelong dental health. Led by Dr. Chad Eardley, our team is committed to treating your children like superstars and equipping them to avoid dental problems from the get-go. Dental sealants are among our most effective preventive solutions—a simple yet strong defense against cavities and decay.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are clear materials applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where most cavities in children are found. These back teeth, the molars, and the premolars have grooves and depressions that can trap food and bacteria, making them hard to clean even with diligent brushing.
Sealants fill these grooves, creating a smooth surface that's easy to clean and offers a barrier against the acids and bacteria that cause tooth decay. Thankfully sealants are appropriate for both primary and permeant teeth. They are most often placed when the permanent back teeth have come completely through the gums, usually at six or seven years of age.
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
The primary benefit of dental sealants is their ability to prevent cavities and tooth decay, but the advantages don't stop there. Here are a few reasons why dental sealants are an intelligent choice for your child:
- Effective Protection: Studies by the American Dental Association and other organizations show that sealants can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in molars by up to 80%.
- Long-Lasting: With proper care, dental sealants can protect your child's teeth for many years, often lasting well into their teenage and adult years.
- Inexpensive: Sealants save money on future dental treatments by preventing cavities. They are an investment in your child's oral health that pays off in the long run.
- Painless Application: Applying sealants is quick, easy, and painless, making it ideal for children.
The Sealant Application Process
At Park Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Eardley ensures that applying dental sealants is an easy and stress-free experience. The entire process is quick and only takes a few minutes per tooth. Plus, it's entirely painless—no numbing required.
Here's what your child can expect during the procedure:
Cleaning
The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to remove plaque or food particles from the grooves.
Preparation
The tooth is then dried, and a solution is applied to the enamel to help the sealant bond to the tooth.
Application
Once the tooth is prepared, Dr. Eardley carefully applies the liquid sealant material to the tooth's surface, filling the grooves and depressions.
Curing
A magic light is used to harden the sealant, bonding it securely to the tooth and creating a durable protective shield.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
While dental sealants are particularly beneficial for school-age children and pre-teens, they can also be advantageous for pre-school and teenage children as well. Dr. Chad recommends considering sealants for:
- Any cooperative child at risk for dental decay.
- Children who have newly erupted permanent teeth.
- Areas where a previous sealant is damaged or defective.
Preparing Your Child for Dental Sealants
Making dental sealants a positive experience for your child at Park Pediatric Dentistry begins with preparation. Understanding what to expect can alleviate your child's worries about the procedure. Here are some tips to prepare your child:
- Talk About It: Explain the process in simple, positive terms. Assure your child that the procedure is quick and easy.
- Assure Comfort: Remind them that Dr. Eardley and our team are there to make the experience as fun and stress-free as possible.
- Encourage Questions: Allow your child to express any fears or questions they might have. Then, suggest that they bring their questions to the appointment. Remember, we're here to provide answers and reassurance.
Remember, our goal at Park Pediatric Dentistry is to care for your child's teeth and to equip them with positive dental experiences that encourage lifelong dental health.
Protect Their Teeth With Dental Sealants
Preventive care is the key to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Dental sealants are just one of the many tools we use at Park Pediatric Dentistry to keep your child's teeth strong and free of decay. If you're in Pleasant View, Utah, and want to learn more about how dental sealants can benefit your child, we're here to answer your questions and provide the care your family deserves.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward protecting your child's smile!