Protecting your child’s dental health is a priority at Hatfield Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in Greer, South Carolina. A key service we offer to achieve this goal is pediatric dental sealants. This preventative treatment plays an essential role in safeguarding your child’s teeth against decay, ensuring they maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
A Closer Look at Pediatric Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a protective barrier placed on the chewing surfaces of children’s back teeth (molars and premolars). The primary purpose of sealants is to prevent tooth decay by sealing off grooves and depressions on the surfaces of these teeth, where food particles and bacteria are likely to accumulate. Dr. LeeAnn Hatfield and Dr. Ryan O'Mally often recommend sealants as a preventive measure for children, starting at the age when molars first appear.
The Benefits of Sealants for Children’s Teeth
- Effective Decay Prevention: Sealants significantly reduce the risk of cavities by providing a physical barrier against bacteria and food particles.
- Long-Lasting Protection: With proper care, dental sealants can protect your child’s teeth for many years.
- Non-Invasive Procedure: Applying sealants is a simple, painless process that does not require drilling or removing tooth structure.
The Process: Applying Pediatric Dental Sealants
The application of dental sealants is quick and painless, typically completed in one visit. The procedure involves cleaning the tooth surface, preparing it with a special solution to help the sealant bond effectively, and then applying the sealant material. Once applied, the sealant is hardened under a light. Dr. Hatfield ensures that each step is conducted with utmost care to provide maximum benefit to her young patients.
What Parents Should Know About Dental Sealants
Understanding what to expect before and after the application of dental sealants can help parents prepare their children for this straightforward procedure. After application, children may return to their normal activities immediately. It’s important to maintain regular dental check-ups so that Dr. Hatfield can monitor the condition of the sealants and reapply them if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dental Sealants
At what age should children get dental sealants?
Children can benefit from sealants as soon as their first molars appear, usually around age 6, and again when their second molars arrive, typically around age 12.
How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants can protect teeth for up to 10 years but should be checked regularly for chips or wear during dental visits.
Are there any side effects associated with dental sealants?
Dental sealants are safe and effective with no known side effects. They are made from materials approved by health and dental associations worldwide.
To schedule an appointment for your child’s pediatric dental sealant procedure in Greer, South Carolina, please contact Hatfield Cosmetic & Family Dentistry at 864-968-8811. Together, we can help protect your child’s smile for years to come.