The chewing regions of the posterior molars have ridges and fissures. even though your child brushes and flosses meticulously, it is difficult to clean the small pits and grooves thoroughly. Food, dental plaque, and bacteria may build up in these crevices and lead to tooth decay. A dentist in Waikiki, Honolulu can help.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry suggests that children receive sealants when their permanent back molars erupt, usually between six and twelve, to reduce the risk of dental decay.
Dental sealants are a firm plastic coating placed on the chewing regions of the molars to form a barrier against acid and plaque, thereby reducing the risk of tooth decay.
Sealants are simple, innocuous, do not necessitate drilling or numbing, and typically last between two and five years. They can be extremely effective at preventing cavities and should be inspected by your child’s dentist during routine exams.
It is essential to remember that dental sealants do not safeguard the flossing surfaces within the teeth or the surfaces adjacent to the cheek and tongue. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is still crucial for your child’s dental health.
How does one maintain dental sealants?
Even though dental sealants are made of plastic, they may break and fall off if not maintained correctly. The more time your dental sealant lasts, the more effectively it prevents cavities.
Ensure you brush every part of your teeth, even if you have sealants. Pick a soft bristle toothbrush and toothpaste. Brush the crowns and sides of the teeth just as you would without sealants. Although sealants safeguard your teeth, tartar accumulation near the gum line can still cause gum disease.
Avoid these foods after having dental sealants
It may take sealants a day or two to completely conform to the tooth’s contour, but once they have, the newly treated teeth feel identical to the others. They do not hinder consuming, chewing, speaking, singing, playing an instrument, or smiling.
Although sealants do not require significant dietary adjustments, there are certain foods that should be avoided after receiving them. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods may trigger them to chip, crack, or slide off.
- Crunching and chewing on hard foods such as ice, jawbreakers, and other hard candies can damage chip sealants.
- Sticky and chewy foods like fruit treats, gummy candy, caramel, and toffee can adhere to and remove the sealant.
By avoiding these foods, the sealants will last longer and provide optimal tooth protection.