4 Invisalign® Cleaning Tips
Using clear aligners is one of the fastest and easiest ways of straightening your teeth. However, proper cleaning is critical to avoid accelerated tooth decay.
Does My Child Need Sealants?
Tooth decay can attack at any time, and kids who brush irregularly or imperfectly are at high risk of cavities. While they learn better oral hygiene habits, you can help them brush and floss, and dental sealants can give your plan to protect their pearly whites an added boost.
At the practice of Dr. Padmaja Yalamanchili in Fairfax, Virginia, Dr. Yalamanchili provides dentistry for children, also known as pediatric dentistry. She cleans your child’s teeth and seals them to help provide extra protection against cavities.
Dental sealants 101
Dental sealants are designed to protect your child’s teeth by creating a close to impenetrable long-lasting wall between tooth enamel and bacteria that can stick to teeth and turn into destructive plaque and tartar.
Most dental sealants are made either of a plant-based or synthetic resin, or glass powder mixed with water soluble acid (glass ionomers.) Sealants can last for years and can be applied to any fully erupted molars (back teeth.)
Dental sealants aren't just recommended for kids, but anyone whose risk of tooth decay in their back molars is elevated. This includes people with medical conditions such as diabetes and dry mouth.
How dental sealants work
Dr. Padmaja Yalaminchi applies sealant over the chewing surfaces of a back molar, making sure it covers the entire area including the pit and grooves. This way food, beverages, and candy can’t stick in the crevices and start a cavity.
Your child can get both baby teeth and permanent teeth sealed. Even though baby teeth are just placeholders, they need to be kept healthy so the permanent tooth will come in correctly. Poor oral health can lead to cavities forming in adult teeth even before they erupt. Sealants make this less likely.
Who should get dental sealants?
Anyone can get dental sealants from the age of two all the way through adulthood. However, children are at the highest risk for cavities between the ages of six (when the first molars appear) and 12 (when secondary molars come in.)
Dental sealants applied during this age range can prevent up to 80% of cavities for two years and continue to protect against 50% of cavities for up to four years. Getting your child’s teeth sealed isn’t a replacement for daily brushing and flossing, but it does help add a layer of defense.
Interested in learning more about dental sealants for your child? Call us today at 703-213-5312, or book a consultation online.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Why Do I Need Bone Grafting for My Dental Implant?
You’re excited about the prospect of getting a dental implant to restore your smile, but then you’re told you’ll need bone grafting first. What is a bone graft and why do you need one?
5 Benefits of a Porcelain Dental Crown
Do you have a damaged, decayed tooth or think you need a root canal or dental implant? If so, a porcelain dental crown could be in your future. There are lots of benefits to this type of restoration.
How to Make the Most of Your Veneers
Are you planning to get veneers soon? Here’s how to get the most out of your experience and your brand new smile.
What Causes Bleeding Gums When Flossing?
You brush, you floss, you rinse, you spit … and there’s blood in the sink. Why? We’re here to tell you all about the reason your gums bleed after flossing and how to fix it.
New Year, New Smile with Teeth Whitening
Planning on making oral hygiene your New Years’ resolution, but hate how yellow your teeth are? Teeth whitening can put you on the right track and motivate you!