Do Sealants Protect Teeth From Cavities?

A common dental issue that affects children is tooth decay. Bacteria feast upon sugar in the mouth and produce acidic byproducts that weaken and decay enamel, the outer protective layer of teeth. Untreated tooth decay can eventually result in permanent damage and holes called cavities. Read on to learn about how dental sealants protect teeth from cavities!

Preventing Cavities with Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a simple solution to help protect your child’s back teeth from decay and cavities. We offer this preventive dental treatment at Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in San Antonio, TX.

A dental sealant consists of a special dental material that fills in the deep crevices and grooves of back teeth. Once this material hardens, the sealant forms a sturdy, protective barrier against food particles and bacteria. Since decay-causing debris can’t get trapped in these hard-to-reach places, your child is less likely to develop decay in these teeth.

While sealants help reduce your child’s risk of cavities in certain vulnerable areas, they are not a replacement for good oral healthcare habits. Your child will still need to brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, brush their tongue every day, floss daily, drink plenty of water, and eat a balanced diet.

Should My Child Get Dental Sealants?

Children benefit from dental sealants if they: have deep grooves in their back teeth; have a history of many cavities; struggle with daily oral hygiene; and/or consume a diet high in carbohydrates and sugar. If you think your child would benefit from sealants, consult with our team during your child’s next exam!

Gentle Dentist for Kids in San Antonio, TX

Your child can find comfortable, high-quality dental care at Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. We offer a comprehensive array of pediatric oral healthcare services and accept a variety of payment options. Contact our San Antonio, TX dental office today to schedule an appointment!

Categorised in: Cavity Prevention, Healthy Teeth