StarBrite Dental
38350 Fremont Blvd. Suite 103
Fremont, CA 94536
Tel: 510-795-7786
Dental
Sealants - How to raise Cavity-Free Kids
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the FREE ARTICLE on How to Raise Cavity-Free
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what to avoid, and how to proactively work towards raising cavity-free kids.
DESCRIPTION
Dental sealants are one of the least known advances of modern dentistry albeit
probably one which could potentially have a very significant impact on the future
well-being of your teeth.
Easy and pain free to apply, dental sealants can dramatically reduce childhood
cavities. Unfortunately, many children do not receive the protective benefits
of sealants. The use of fluoride in drinking water and education about proper
brushing and flossing have resulted in a dramatic reduction in cavity formation
for our kids. However, cavities which occur in teeth located at the back of
the mouth are still prone to cavity formation mainly due to improper brushing
due to difficulty in accessing those area of the mouth. Research has shown that
more than 80% of all cavities occur in the back teeth in each arch of the mouth.
These back teeth (molars) are susceptible to cavity formation because on the
surface they contain small pits and grooves which are necessary for chewing
the food. These pits cannot be cleaned by easily by toothbrushing. Bacteria
builds up in these pits and groves, feeds on leftover food particles, and creates
acidic components as a by-products This acid is retained in the pits and grooves
and ultimately destroys tooth enamel, causing cavities.
SOLUTION
Dental sealants are clear protective coatings which are applied to cover the
tooth surface and prevent bacteria and food particles from lodging into the
pits and grooves. To apply these sealants, the dentist will thoroughly clean
the teeth, prepare the tooth surfaces for sealnt application, and then paint
the dental sealant onto the teeth. The procedure is very easy and takes only
10 minutes or so.
Sealants are applied after the age of six when the first permanent molars come
in, however, they can also be applied in adults. Dental sealants last for 4-5
years and can easily be applied by your dentist when they do wear off. It is
important to have sealants checked periodically to ensure integrity and uniformity
of covering.
Dental sealants have been recommended by the American Dental Association for
twenty years and have been shown to significantly reduce cavities. Despite these
facts, few children are protected by dental sealants mainly because parents
don't know that this is available as an effective option for protecting their
children's teeth.
At StarBrite
Dental we strongly recommend sealants for all our young patients.
Make an appointment today by calling us and ensure
that you and your child has a healthy and beautiful smile for a long time. Dental
sealants are a covered benefit with most dental insurance plans.