It’s a fact that kid’s teeth fall out, eventually they will lose the primary teeth that are replaced with permanent ones. While these teeth are temporary, that doesn’t mean dental care for them isn’t important! Dental health and care is important when it comes to pediatric dentistry. Untreated primary teeth, also called baby teeth, can affect the permanent teeth that come in behind them. Poor dental health will also affect children’s speech and nutrition habits.
The good news is there is a quick and easy way to prevent cavities in younger mouths! According to an article by NBC News, dental sealants can prevent 80 percent of cavities in children. Unfortunately, only 43 percent of children have them. These sealants work by providing a protective coating over the molars that prevent tooth decay on baby teeth. When food gets into these parts of the teeth, it can be hard to remove the food even with regular brushing. Food that doesn’t get removed, rots and creates acid that sits on the teeth and starts to form cavities. While many dental procedures can be costly, insurance generally covers the cost of sealants. Dental sealants are also a third of the cost of getting a filling. This process will save families money by preventing cavities before there is a need to fix them.
How do dental sealants work to prevent cavities? Dental sealants are an important part of pediatric dentistry. The sealant is applied directly to the chewing surface of the molars and then dried with a special UV light. This will coat the grooves and pits of the tooth, areas where food can easily get trapped. The sealant will protect the enamel of the teeth, the strongest defense against tooth decay. On each checkup, your dentist will check to ensure there are no issues. If any wear or leaks occur to the sealant the dentist can do a quick repair the same day. This is also a quick and painless procedure, the best kind for a child scared or anxious at the dentist. Your child will also be able to eat and drink as soon as the sealant is dry which means no long wait for snack or meal time!
Though sealants make a huge difference in preventing cavities in children, preventative measures need to be followed as well. This not only prevents issues to the sealant and baby teeth but it also will develop good habits that your child will continue throughout their lives to protect their permanent teeth.
Parents are the biggest resource in encouraging kids to develop good brushing habits. Small children may need a hand to guide them through the motions until they are doing a good enough job on their own. If parents have good brushing habits and oral health, they will set the greatest example for their child!
Prevention steps for children:- Brush for two minutes, twice a day. To encourage brushing, do it together with your child and make it fun with music or a dance!
- Floss daily
- Visit the dentist twice annually for a checkup and a cleaning
Pairing dental sealants with regular brushing and flossing with allow your child to have excellent dental health for a long time. They will not only protect their temporary baby teeth, but also protect their future, permanent adult teeth.
Kennedy Dental Group located in Chapel Hill, NC, has been providing dental treatment and preventative care to their clients since 1967. Call Kennedy Dental at (919) 967-9291 to schedule an appointment today.
Recommended Reading:Dental Sealants Prevent Cavities and More Kids Need Them, CDC Says
What are Dental Sealants and Does My Child Need Them?
