Sealants

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, plastic films painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth – molars and premolars – and are highly effective in the prevention of tooth decay (caries and cavities). Dental sealants are particularly effective on the back teeth, as the back teeth contain more hard-to-reach pits and grooves that serve as a host to food debris and plaque build-up.

Taking Care of Your Children’s Teeth

You should always clean your infant’s gums after feeding. Gums should be wiped with a clean, damp cloth or gauze pad. Parents should brush children’s teeth daily with a soft wet toothbrush and a pea sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Schedule a dental visit between 6-12 months of age. When children are very young it is necessary to supervise their brushing to ensure proper brushing habits are adopted.

Your dentist will probably recommend regular fluoride treatments which will strengthen enamel and help your child’s teeth resist decay. You should provide your child with fluoridated water and always use an I.D.A. accepted fluoridated toothpaste.

To prevent your child suffering from nursing bottle mouth, you must give your baby a bottle at nap or bed time. Fill the bottle with plain water and not milk, formula or juice.

Dental sealants can provide a further layer of protection against cavities. They are plastic coatings which are painted onto the grooved chewing surfaces at the back of the teeth.