At What Age Should My Child Get Sealants?
When a child starts developing their first set of permanent teeth, it is an exciting phase for them and their parents. Maintaining good oral hygiene becomes even more important during this period to avoid the risk of cavities. Along with brushing and flossing, most dentists recommend additional protection with dental sealants. But what is the best age for kids to get sealants? Let’s learn more about this simple preventive dental treatment.
Why Are Dental Sealants Recommended For Children?
Your little one’s smile goes through changes as they grow, but one thing that threatens the health of their teeth is tooth decay or cavities. When a baby tooth gets decayed, it is a major concern as it may fall off early or risk the other teeth. However, it is an even bigger issue when a permanent tooth develops cavities.
To prevent this issue from an early stage, pediatric dentists suggest coating the teeth with sealants. During the treatment, the fissures and grooves on the teeth are coated with a tooth-colored material. The material is then hardened with a special light. It creates a protective shield, preventing the risk of cavities.
This treatment is highly beneficial for newly developed molars and premolars. It prevents harmful bacteria from damaging the tooth enamel and helps maintain healthy teeth.
What Is The Right Age For Children To Get Sealants?
Dental sealants are a great option to protect growing permanent molars from damage and decay. Most children start developing their first permanent molars around the age of 6 or 7 years, which is an ideal time to get sealants. The sooner these teeth are protected, the lesser the chances of cavities.
Even if your child has not gotten sealants at an early stage, they can still receive this treatment later on. It is optimal for children between the ages of 6 and 12 as their teeth need more care during this phase. However, older kids and teenagers can also get this treatment to protect their teeth against decay.
Any Questions?
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Dental sealants coat the cavity-prone areas of your child’s teeth and protect against decay for many years. They make the tooth surface more smooth, making it easier for children to brush their teeth. With proper care, dental sealants can last for up to 10 years.
It is possible that sealants may chip or fall off due to hard biting force or dental injuries. If that happens, you can take your child to a pediatric dentist. They will examine the tooth surfaces and reapply the sealant material to protect them for many more years.
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Summing Up
Dental sealants are a painless and cost-effective treatment that can help your child maintain a cavity-free smile. If you are concerned about your child’s oral health or want to know more about preventive dental care, reach out to our pediatric dentists at LuxDen Kids today. You can call us at (347) 391-0744 to schedule an appointment.