Your kids are brushing and flossing their teeth every day, but is that enough to prevent tooth decay? At the office of Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA, our dentists will introduce your family to a quick, painless way to seal out cavities — especially in those hard-to-reach spots on the back teeth.
Tooth decay is the single most common chronic childhood disease, with cavities found in more than half of all 5- to 9-year-olds and most 17-year-olds.
But cavities are almost entirely preventable. And sealants can help, by providing a thin, invisible protective coating for the molars — the teeth used for chewing, which is a favorite hiding place for food and bacteria.
How effective is this process? Sealants reduce the risk of tooth decay by almost 80 percent. Their effectiveness is especially high for patients ages 6-11; children without sealants have nearly three times more cavities than those with this added protection.
You don’t have to wait for cavities to start popping up before asking our dentists about this inexpensive process — sealing the molars early on can save aggravation and money in the long run. Our first molars start appearing around the age of 6, with second molars following about six years later.
The process is fast, simple, long-lasting and our patients don’t feel a thing. Sealants composed of plastic or other materials can even be used directly over cavities to keep the damage from becoming worse.
Our skilled professionals are strong believers in highlighting the importance of preventative treatments for our patients. During regular checkups and cleanings, we’ll offer guidance and resources to help you maintain an optimal oral hygiene routine at home.
At Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA, we’re committed to ensuring that each member of your family leaves our office with a smile. Contact us today about our comprehensive range of services.
By Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA
April 26, 2021
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