Getting children to brush — let alone floss — their teeth can often be a challenge. When teeth are not brushed regularly or well enough, cavities inevitably develop. But there’s another safety net to help keep those teeth clean. It’s called a sealant, a thin, protective coating that adheres to the chewing surface of the teeth.
At the office of Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA, our professional team is committed to pediatric oral health, and wants to play an active role helping your child maintain a healthy set of teeth at every developmental stage.
While sealants are no substitute for brushing and flossing, they can keep cavities from forming and may even stop early stages of decay from becoming a full-blown cavity. In fact, sealants have been shown to reduce the risk of decay by nearly 80% in molars. This is especially important when it comes to your child's dental health. According to the Centers for Disease Control, school-age children without sealants have almost three times more cavities than children with sealants.
How sealants work:
When the cavity-causing bacteria that live in the mouth meet leftover food particles, they produce acids that can create cavities in the teeth. Applying a sealant gel to the teeth keeps those bits of food out and stops bacteria and acid from settling in. In short, sealants are protective coverings.
Children and adults can benefit from sealants, but the earlier you get them, the better. Sealing teeth as soon as they come through can keep them cavity-free from the start. The process is quick, painless and can help save time and money in the long run.
Committed to your child’s oral health:
At the office of Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA, we offer the highest quality of skilled and compassionate care for your child’s dental needs. For more information about the services we provide, give us a call today.
By Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA
November 19, 2021
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