Dental sealants may also be referred to as tooth sealants. They are plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth to protect them from the bacteria and plaque that cause tooth decay. They are mostly applied to the grooves of molars and premolars – This is where decay occurs frequently. The sealant protects chewing surfaces from germs and food items sticking to the grooves. The best way to protect the permanent teeth of a child is to apply dental sealants.
Dr. Kezian and staff have considerable experience in dental heath and provide variety of dental sealants to their patients.
What are the purposes of sealants?
- Children and teenagers – Sealants are used for protection the moment the six year molar appears. This is the time most cavities occur.
- Baby teeth – Sealants may be used on baby teeth if they have deep depressions or grooves or if the child is particularly prone to cavities.
What Procedures Are Involved In Sealants?
- Cotton is placed around the teeth that will be sealed – This keeps them dry once they have been completely cleaned.
- A unique solution is placed on the surface of the enamel to help the sealant bond to the teeth.
- The tooth is then rinsed and dried.
- Deep groves and depressions on the surface of the enamel are filled with the sealant material. The sealants are painted on very carefully.
- The sealant materials are either hardened with an artificial light or naturally.
Dr. Kezian points that the sealants are capable of withstanding the normal chewing pressures and that they can remain intact for up to ten years. As long as the sealant remains, the surface of the tooth will not decay. Dental sealants are very effective measures against the development of tooth decay especially for children and teenagers.
Appropriate dental care is necessary to address the dental problems of infants and toddlers. This is taken care of by children’s dentists. Dr. Kezian and staff who have a vast experience in the field of children’s dentistry can:
- Provide assistance in the development of child’s dental development.
- Inform the parents about proper oral hygiene that they must educate their children on which is very important because it prevents the formation of plate that causes serious dental problems.
The Following Are Some of The Dental Tips Provided By Dr. Kezian and staff;
- Teeth cleaning – The baby’s teeth should be cleaned with a soft, clean cloth after breastfeeding, drinking meal in a bottle and feeding. When the child has more than one tooth that has erupted, a soft-bristled child’s toothbrush should be used for gentle brushing. Enough amounts of toothpaste should be used. The taste must not be too strong for the baby.
- A Visit To The Children’s Dentist After The First Year Of Birth – The children should have their initial dental examination after one year in order to get familiar with the dentist. The dentist will discuss dental guidelines on oral hygiene and nutritional intake with the parents.
- Dental Sealants – They are used as fillers to protect teeth from having tooth decay. This is to ensure possible space for plaque to be sealed.
- Dental Flossing And Mouth Washing – This is essential to remove plaque in between the teeth. Children at the age of six must be taught to regularly floss their own teeth especially after every meal. Mouth washing is necessary to avoid unpleasant breath and formation of plaque.
Dental Treatments – In case of teeth misalignment, braces and retainers are recommended. In cases of dental injuries or trauma, dental surgery is required to fix the formation and alignment of teeth
Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS - 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777 https://www.drkezian.com