Protecting Your Child’s Smile with Dental Sealants at Upper Valley Pediatric Dentistry of West Lebanon

During your visit to Upper Valley Pediatric Dentistry of West Lebanon, Dr. Eileen Saunders may recommend dental sealants for your child. Sealants are a proactive measure to prevent tooth decay and maintain optimal dental health.

Why Are Sealants Important?

Dental sealants play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay, particularly in the back teeth where it is more challenging to reach with a toothbrush. Sealants cover these hard-to-clean areas and act as a barrier against decay-causing bacteria and food particles.

Sealants are especially beneficial for children and teens but can also be advantageous for adults. Did you know that sealants can reduce tooth decay by up to 80% within the first two years? Even after four years, sealants can continue to prevent up to 50% of decay. In contrast, children without sealants are three times more likely to develop tooth decay.

When Should My Child Get Sealants?

Sealants are most effective when applied as soon as your child’s molars come in, typically between the ages of 6 and 12. To ensure your child’s molars are protected, schedule a discussion with Dr. Eileen Saunders about the best timing for sealant application. Regular exams at Upper Valley Pediatric Dentistry will help determine the optimal time for sealants.

What to Expect During the Sealant Application

The process of applying sealants is simple and quick. First, we will clean your child’s teeth thoroughly. Then, we apply a special cleaning gel to prepare the surface. After rinsing off the gel, we apply the sealant material. A small blue light is used to harden the sealant in just seconds. The procedure is virtually painless and is one of the most straightforward treatments we offer.

Are There Any Concerns?

Sealants are generally very safe, with no known side effects or significant allergic reactions. However, if your child has any allergies, discuss them with Dr. Eileen Saunders to ensure we provide the safest and most effective care.

What Are the Next Steps?

To maintain your child’s oral health, it’s essential to schedule regular visits to Upper Valley Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Eileen Saunders and our team will monitor your child’s dental health and apply sealants as needed to keep their smile healthy and bright.

For more information about dental sealants or to schedule an appointment, contact Upper Valley Pediatric Dentistry of West Lebanon today. We’re here to help keep your child’s smile healthy and radiant!