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As parents, we all want the best for our children - their health, happiness, and, of course, that radiant smile. But did you know that brushing and flossing alone may not be enough to protect your child's teeth from decay? That's where dental sealants come in!

Dental sealants are a fantastic tool in your arsenal to protect your child's precious smile. They are thin, protective coatings made of plastic that are applied to the chewing surfaces of your child's back teeth. These back teeth, also known as molars and premolars, have deep grooves and pits where food particles can easily get trapped. This makes them more susceptible to tooth decay.

How Do Dental Sealants Protect Your Child's Teeth?

Dental sealants are a powerful tool in protecting your child's teeth from tooth decay and cavities. These thin plastic coatings act as a barrier, preventing bacteria and food particles from settling into the crevices of their back teeth, where brushing and flossing can sometimes be missed.

By creating a smooth surface on the chewing surfaces of molars, dental sealants make it much harder for plaque to build up. This means fewer opportunities for harmful acids to attack tooth enamel and cause decay. It's like giving your child an extra layer of armor against cavities!

The Procedure To Get Dental Sealants

Getting dental sealants for your child is a simple and painless procedure that can provide long-lasting protection for their teeth. The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Cleaning: Before applying the sealant, the dentist will thoroughly clean your child's teeth to remove any food particles or plaque.
2. Isolation: To ensure proper adhesion of the sealant, the dentist will isolate each tooth by placing cotton rolls around it. This helps to keep the area dry during application.
3. Etching: Next, a small amount of acidic gel is applied to roughen up the surface of the teeth slightly. This creates a better bond between the tooth enamel and the sealant material.
4. Rinse and Dry: After etching, rinse your child's teeth with water and dry them completely before applying the sealant.
5. Sealant Application: The dentist will carefully paint a thin layer of liquid plastic resin onto each tooth's chewing surface using a brush or applicator tool.
6. Curing Process: Once applied, a special blue light is used to harden or cure the sealant quickly so that it forms a strong protective barrier over your child's tooth.
7. Evaluation and Finishing Touches: After checking that all surfaces are properly sealed, your child can rinse their mouth while ensuring they don't eat or drink anything sticky for at least 30 minutes afterward.

Remember that dental sealants can last several years with proper care but should be regularly checked during routine dental visits to ensure they remain intact and effective in guarding against decay!

Schedule an appointment with Modesto Kidz Dental to make sure your child is in optimal dental health. We are at Bldg B, 2801 Coffee Rd, Modesto, CA 95355. Contact us at (209) 578-3131. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have!