Today’s dental blog focuses on a preventative treatment often used to help impede the development of cavities in children.
Dental sealants are a thin coat of clear resin that is applied to the biting surfaces of teeth, usually the rear molars. The back teeth are more prone to cavities because is difficult to reach them with a tooth brush and the surfaces contain pits and grooves that easily trap bacteria. It is hard for many adults to clean their back molars and almost impossible for our young children.
Dental sealants fill in the pits and grooves on the rear molars to create a smooth surface. Family dentists most often recommend sealants for children’s permanent back teeth, though sometimes they are used for adults, too.
Parents may not realize how quickly a cavity can form in a young child’s mouth. Many kids develop cavities even before they start kindergarten!
It is vital that our local parents start regular dental visits early for their toddlers and young children. The American Dental Association advises that a child’s initial dental exam take place soon after the first tooth erupts, but no later than the toddler’s first birthday.
Dental sealants protect teeth without decay (primary prevention) and also prevent tooth decay from getting worse (secondary prevention).
At Blaisdell Family Dentistry, we take special care of our young dental patients. We want each child’s dental visits to be pleasant and painless so they will never develop a fear of the dentist. We advise parents on the specific dental issues associated with each stage of childhood. Ask us about fluoride, sports mouthguards, and orthodontic treatment.
I am Lynn R. Blaisdell of Blaisdell Family Dentistry. I don’t believe that childhood cavities are unavoidable. Call my office at 208-377-9696 to schedule a dental exam.
I provide comprehensive restorative and cosmetic dentistry for people of all ages. My office is located at 8877 W Hackamore Dr in Boise. You can learn more about my practice at https://www.blaisdellfamilydentistry.com/about-blaisdell-family-dentistry/
Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:
208-377-9696
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709