Dental Sealants – Waterbury, CT
A Simple, Kid-Friendly Form of Cavity Prevention
Believe it or not, cavities are one of the most common health issues in the whole world—and the CDC reports that tooth decay is the number one most common chronic childhood illness! Here at Waterbury Smiles, we offer a quick and easy way to prevent cavities in children with dental sealants. This safe, remarkably effective form of care only takes moments to complete, and it can provide years of cavity protection for your child as they grow into their smile. To learn more or schedule an appointment, just contact our Waterbury office today.
Why Choose Waterbury Smiles for Dental Sealants?
- Three Dedicated Dentists Under One Roof
- Modern Office with Patient-Friendly Amenities
- Insurance Friendly & Financing Options Available
What Are Dental Sealants?
A dental sealant is a clear, biocompatible material that can be painted over the teeth in order to provide sufficient protection from cavity-causing bacteria. The back molars have very pitted and grooved surfaces, meaning that it’s much harder to brush them effectively and prevent decay. This holds especially true for children, who are still learning how to care for their smiles as they grow. Dental sealants are usually placed over these molars, since they’re at a higher risk of developing cavities. With excellent care, dental sealants can serve as an incredible form of cavity-prevention for several years.
How Are Dental Sealants Placed?
The process of getting a dental sealant is very simple, and it can be completed in just a few minutes following your child’s routine checkup and cleaning. It’s also entirely painless and requires no numbing or drilling! After the teeth are cleaned and dried, the liquid sealant material is essentially painted over the grooves and pits of the back molars. Sometimes a special gel is used to help the sealant bond, and following this, a special curing light is used to harden it into place. This creates a shield against cavity-causing bacteria. The dentist will also check your child’s bite and adjust the sealant if needed to make sure it isn’t disruptive and is only protective.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
The American Dental Association recommends that children get dental sealants between the ages of 5 and 7, and then again between the ages of 11 and 14. This might seem excessive, but it’s actually quite strategic; it ensures that both the baby and permanent sets of molars receive adequate protection from cavities. It’s also worth mentioning that adults can benefit from dental sealants in the same way that children can; any amount of extra cavity protection is quite worthwhile!