What are Sealants?

If you have children, it’s almost certain that we recommend they get dental sealants. This type of preventive care is nearly always covered by insurance and goes a long way toward reducing cavities. In fact, many adults could benefit from them, as well. But although you’ve probably heard sealants are helpful, you may still be unclear on what they are. At Kidz Connextion in Phoenix, we want the families we treat to feel confident in their care, so let’s take a closer look at what sealants do and why they should be applied in a timely manner.

 

A sealant is a plastic barrier between a tooth and decay-causing bacteria. It can’t substitute for regular brushing and flossing, but it can slow down the rate of decay. This is especially important for children, whose teeth are softer and who have more difficulty maintaining their oral hygiene. The process of receiving a sealant is simple and easy on the patient. After a professional cleaning, the teeth are etched with a mild acid in order to increase their surface area. The sealant is then painted on in liquid form and hardened under a blue light. The patient should be able to eat normally within a few hours, and the sealant can be expected to last for several years.

 

Usually, sealants are applied to the molars and premolars. These teeth have indentations between their cusps, which are used for chewing, and the indentations are where starchy food debris is most likely to get caught and fuel decay. In addition to providing a shield, sealants somewhat even out the tooth, removing the trap for food, while still allowing the cusps to serve their grinding function. Sealant plastic isn’t immune from acidic erosion and food debris still has to be brushed away, but sealants, along with brushing and drinking plenty of water, will allow a child to eat their favorite foods with significantly less risk of developing cavities on the teeth that are most vulnerable.

 

Kidz Connextion has three convenient locations in Phoenix, Arizona. To schedule an appointment at 2533 N 75th St, text 623-232-0749. For our office at 2046 N 24th St, text 480-666-5984. For our office at 524 E Baseline Rd, text 480-405-4714. Or, visit Kidz Connextion on our website.