The primary teeth, or baby teeth, may be temporary, but their role in your child’s development is vital. They are essential for speech, chewing, maintaining space for future permanent teeth, and supporting a healthy smile. When a cavity breaks down a baby tooth, it can cause your child pain, change their eating habits, and possibly even affect the emerging permanent tooth. Prevention is key. We know you want the best for your child’s oral health, which is why the use of Dental Sealants on primary teeth is often a highly recommended option.

Let’s dive into why this easy preventive treatment can help keep those important teeth healthy and free of disease until they are lost naturally.  

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of your child’s back teeth (molars). The chewing surfaces have deep grooves and fissures where food particles and bacteria can easily become trapped, leading to cavities. Sealants act as a barrier, sealing out the grooves and preventing plaque and bacteria from causing decay. It is a quick, painless procedure and is highly effective in preventing cavities in baby teeth and permanent teeth.

Why Should I Get Sealants on My Child’s Baby Teeth?

Dental sealants in Buda, TX, have numerous benefits when it comes to protecting baby teeth. Here’s why you should consider them: 

• Prevent Cavities: Sealants are among the most effective ways to prevent cavities, especially for children who are still learning to brush their teeth properly.
• Durability: Sealants can last several years, providing long-lasting protection against cavities when properly cared for.
• Quick and Painless: Sealant application is quick, easy, and painless for young children, who are often a little anxious about dental visits.  

How Are Dental Sealants Applied to Baby Teeth?

The application of dental sealants is a simple and non-invasive procedure that doesn’t require drilling or anesthesia. Here’s how it works: 

• Cleaning: The dentist will clean the surface of your child’s teeth to remove any plaque or debris.
• Preparation: First, the dental hygienist will polish the tooth surface with a special gel to remove plaque and debris from the enamel. This is to ensure the sealant bonds to the tooth.
• Sealant Application: The dentist will apply a liquid sealant to the tooth grooves.
• Curing: A blue light is employed to help the sealant harden, allowing it to firmly attach to the tooth.

It often only takes a few minutes per tooth, and your child can return to their usual activity right away with good oral health.  

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last on Baby Teeth?

Dental sealants in Buda, TX, can last about 3-5 years on baby teeth. But it’s key to check sealants regularly to ensure they’re still in place and working well. If sealants begin to wear, they can be reapplied to provide continued protection.

Conclusion: Protect Your Child’s Smile with Dental Sealants 

Dental sealants are a great way to help prevent cavities and protect your child’s baby teeth from decay. If your child needs an affordable, quick treatment that provides a layer of protection without causing extra pain or discomfort, consider dental sealants. We offer a variety of preventive treatment options at Buda Dental Specialty Group to help keep your children’s teeth healthy and cavity-free. 

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about our dental sealants in Buda, TX!

FAQs

At what age should my child get dental sealants?

Sealants are most often placed in children’s teeth as soon as their permanent molars erupt (at about age 6), but can also be placed in baby teeth, if necessary.

Are dental sealants safe for my child?

Yes, dental sealants are safe and recommended by dental professionals to protect your child’s teeth from cavities.

Do dental sealants hurt?

No, the procedure of applying dental sealants is painless without the need for drills or needles.

How long do dental sealants last?

Dental sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and may last several years before a reapplication is needed.

Does insurance cover dental sealants?

Many dental insurance plans cover sealants for children, but it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider.

Can sealants be applied if a tooth already has a cavity?

Dental sealants can only be put on teeth that don’t have cavities. If your child already has cavities, those cavities need to be treated first.

What can I do to ensure my child’s teeth are healthy after dental sealants are applied?

Encourage your child to brush and floss regularly and to avoid biting hard objects and eating sticky foods that could damage the sealants.