At Thomson Family Dental, we often recommend dental sealants during your child’s next visit to our office. Sealants are a valuable tool in preventing tooth decay, especially on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. To help you make an informed decision about this procedure, here’s what you need to know about how dental sealants can benefit your child’s oral health.

Why Are Sealants Important?

Dental sealants are designed to protect the back teeth, where decay is most likely to occur. These teeth, known as molars, have deep grooves that can trap food and bacteria, making them difficult to clean thoroughly. Applying sealants can prevent up to 80% of decay during the first two years after application and continue to protect against about half of all decay for up to four years. Without sealants, children are three times more likely to experience tooth decay compared to those with sealants.

Ideal Timing for Sealants

Sealants are most effective when applied soon after the molars emerge, which typically occurs around age six for the first set and around age 12 for the second set. Your dentist in Thomson will determine the optimal time to apply sealants based on your child’s specific needs during their routine dental check-up.

What to Expect During Application

Applying sealants is a quick and straightforward process that causes minimal discomfort. First, your child’s teeth will be cleaned and treated with a special gel. Once the gel is removed, the sealant is applied and hardened using a small blue curing light. This process ensures that the sealant bonds securely to the teeth, providing lasting protection.

Are There Any Concerns?

Dental sealants are safe, and allergic reactions are extremely rare. However, if your child has known allergies, it’s important to inform us so we can ensure the best course of action is taken. Sealants typically last for several years, but regular check-ups with your dentist in Thomson are essential to monitor their condition and ensure they remain effective.

Next Steps

To maintain the benefits of sealants and ensure ongoing dental health, regular visits to Thomson Family Dental are crucial. If your child had sealants applied some time ago and you’re unsure if they need replacement, scheduling an appointment with us is a good idea.

For more information about dental sealants or to book your child’s next appointment, please contact Thomson Family Dental. We look forward to helping your family maintain healthy, beautiful smiles.