Dental sealants are a great way to protect against tooth decay and cavities that form on your back teeth (molars). Molars are uneven, rough and full of nooks and crannies where harmful bacteria and food can hide. These are the teeth that are most vulnerable to cavities and decay because they are used in the chewing process and are the most difficult to reach and clean.
Molars first come in at around 5-7 years of age, with a second set coming in between the ages of 11-14. It is best to have a tooth sealant placed when the molars first come in to ensure they are protected early. If you're considering options for toddler tooth decay treatment, then sealants may be worth looking into. According to the Centers for Disease Control in 2016, children without sealants have about three times more cavities than those with dental sealants.
To place a sealant, an adhesive is first applied to the teeth. The dental sealant is then placed over the adhesive as a liquid, as if it is painted right onto the tooth. The liquid then hardens and creates a barrier between your tooth and any plaque, food particles, and bacteria. Sealants last for about 10 years and can be reapplied if necessary.
Contact our dentist today to learn more about the benefits of sealants.