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Learn MoreDental Sealants
Children's Dental Sealants in Wilmington, NC
What are dental sealants
Dental sealants are thin white coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of back (molar) teeth. The chewing surfaces of molar teeth contain multiple pits and grooves which are difficult to clean with brushing and flossing alone. These areas can harbor plaque and bacteria, increasing the risk of developing tooth decay.
Dental sealants provide a protective barrier which prevents the buildup of plaque on molar teeth, thereby preventing tooth decay in these vulnerable areas. Dental sealants have been utilized for decades because they have been proven to be extremely effective in reducing a child’s risk of cavities.
Does my child need dental sealants?
Dental sealants are typically recommended once the permanent first molars erupt, around the age of six. During your child’s oral exam our specialized dentists will evaluate the molar teeth and determine if dental sealants are right for your child.
How are dental sealants applied
Applying a dental sealant is a simple and painless procedure. It begins with thoroughly cleaning your child’s tooth, followed by painting the sealant material directly onto the tooth enamel. Our dental specialists will evaluate your child’s sealants at every dental check-up to ensure they remain intact.
Early protection of molars can prevent cavities!
At Wilmington Kids Dentist we are dedicated to helping your child maintain a healthy smile. To schedule a dentist appointment for your child with one of our award-winning dentists, please click HERE or the button below.
Related FAQs
Of course! Not only do we allow parents to stay with their kids during exams and most treatments, we encourage it. We have found that having a parent stay with their child lessens the anxiety for both the child, as well as the parent. Younger patients will often lay in their parent's lap during the exam to provide the most soothing experience.
Also, being with your child during their dental appointment allows the dentist and parent to discuss their child's dental health and provide realtime feedback and tips.
The only exception is during General Anesthesia. Parents are able to be with their child when they fall asleep and wake up, but not during treatment. The treatment room is small and with the dentist, dental assistant and the anesthesiologist, the room is just too crowded to provide the safest environment for your child. During this time, you are asked to wait in the lobby. The office staff will bring you updates during treatment.
Monitoring your child’s diet and oral hygiene are important factors in preventing dental decay. We recommend helping your child brush their teeth twice a day and floss any teeth that are touching nightly. A good rule of thumb is if your child can cut meat into perfect squares they likely have the manual dexterity to start brushing and flossing on their own.
When your child is ready for this transition, we recommend you continue to supervise their oral hygiene. After nighttime brushing and flossing, only allow your child to have water before bed. Never allow your child to sleep with juice or milk overnight. Frequent sipping on sweet drinks (juice, soda, sports drinks) can increase your risk of getting cavities. Try to limit these types of beverages as much as possible. Drinking water with meals or after snacks helps wash off the food and sugars from teeth and is especially important if your child is drinking sugary beverages.
While breastmilk alone does not cause cavities, after your child’s teeth have erupted breastfeeding in combination with carbohydrates and sugars can cause cavities. It is important to begin brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they come in.