Teeth are designed to last for a lifetime with the right care over the years. The biggest threat to their health is tooth decay. Although cavities can occur no matter your age, children are prone to them because they often have poor oral hygiene habits. In fact, 42% of children under the age of 11 have had at least one cavity. Adults are not immune to tooth decay as 92% of adults have had at least one cavity in a permanent tooth. Now, you can give your family an added layer of protection with dental sealants in Castle Rock.
What are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants help protect cavity-prone areas from tooth decay by creating a barrier between their enamel and harmful bacteria. About 90% of cavities develop on the chewing surfaces of the molars because their deep grooves and crevasses are difficult to clean. As a result, bacteria slowly eat away at the enamel until it creates a hole. Now, a filling is needed to stop the damage from worsening.
Applying dental sealants to these areas can reduce the risk of decay by as much as 81%. A
Who Can Get Dental Sealants?
Anyone, no matter their age, can enjoy the protection of a dental sealant. Most often, your pediatric dentist in Castle Rock recommends them for children because they are the most prone to tooth decay. It is best to have them applied between the ages of 6 and 14; however, you are never too old to benefit from their protection.
How Can I Get Dental Sealants?
Children can have dental sealants applied to their teeth using a pain-free treatment that can be performed during semi-annual preventive appointments. Your dentist cleans their teeth and dries them before applying an acidic solution. This roughens the enamel to create a secure bond between their enamel and the sealant.
The acid is rinsed from their teeth, and they are dried before the dentist places the sealant. A special curing light quickly hardens the material.
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Dental sealants are strong enough to withstand regular chewing. On average, they last about 10 years before needing to be replaced. Unfortunately, they can come loose or break over time. If a sealant becomes damaged, your dentist can quickly replace it during your next appointment.
Protect Your Smile Today
You can give your children the protection of dental sealants to keep their teeth cavity-free. Many insurance policies cover their cost for patients under the age of 18. You will reduce your family’s overall dental costs by preventing the development of cavities.
Invest in your family’s smiles with the protection of dental sealants. Ask your dentist about them during your child’s next preventive appointment.
About Dr. Layne Benzley
Dr. Layne Benzley is committed to creating generations of healthy beautiful smiles using a focus on prevention. Besides cleanings and checkups, he also offers dental sealants to reduce the risk of tooth decay. Contact our office today to schedule your child’s next cleaning and checkup.
