Do Sealants Prevent Cavities?

Cavities are a dental issue that can affect people of all ages. A cavity is an area of a tooth that has become permanently damaged by decay. Tooth decay is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria. Bacterial plaque feasts upon a person’s dietary sugars and produces acidic byproducts that damage the enamel, which is the outer layer of teeth. Untreated cavities can result in bad breath, pain and sensitivity, infection, and tooth loss.

Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce your child’s risk of cavities. One of the most common ways to prevent cavities is with dental sealants, which we offer here at Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Lytle, TX.

Why Do Kids Get Cavities?

A patient is more susceptible to developing cavities if their brushing and flossing aren’t fully cleaning their teeth. For example, the teeth in the back of the mouth, called premolars and molars, can have deep grooves that easily trap food particles and bacteria. The pits and crevices of these teeth can be difficult to keep clean, especially for children that have not yet developed the dexterity needed to maximize the effectiveness of their toothbrushing.

Children that consume an abundance of sugary liquids and carbohydrates, candy, and/or sugary chewing gum are also at an increased risk of cavities since bacteria thrive on sugar.

What Is a Dental Sealant?

A dental sealant is a beneficial line of defense against cavities for patients of all ages but particularly younger patients. It’s a non-toxic layer of a special dental liquid that fills up and then hardens in the grooves of the back teeth. This long-lasting protective layer seals out bacteria and food particles, thus reducing the risk of cavities.

Dental Sealants in Lytle, TX

If you are looking for a pediatric dentist in Lytle, we invite you to consider joining our dental family at Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics! We offer comprehensive pediatric dentistry that is gentle and comfortable for infants, children, and teenagers. But our orthodontic services are available to patients of all ages, including adults! Our office offers family block appointments and lots of kid-friendly amenities.

For more information about dental sealants or our other dental services, or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

Categorised in: Cavity Prevention, Healthy Teeth, Kids Teeth, Preventive Dental Care