Going to the dentist can often be a bit confusing. This is especially true if a dentist recommends that a child, or adult, for that matter, needs some type of dental device or application. Many parents wonder what it means if they are told their child needs sealants during their next visit to the Dental Office Beaver Dam WI. Learning more about this process, what it entails and the benefits it offers will help anyone determine if this is a procedure they would like to move forward with.
One of the first things to understand is that having sealants applied is a simple procedure that has virtually no discomfort. There is no need for numbing of the mouth, and if a drill is needed, it has a very minimal role. Also, dental sealants are one of the most effective proactive steps that can be taken to help protect a child’s teeth from decay.
Dental sealants are a thin coating of composite or plastic that are placed in the grooves on the adult, permanent teeth in the back of the mouth. These are the “chewing surfaces” that are the most common areas for children, and even adolescents, to experience tooth decay. Essentially, sealants are locking down the teeth with a layer of protective armor that helps to prevent bacteria from getting into the grooves and causing serious damage.
The majority of sealants used by a Dental Office Beaver Dam WI are going to be clear, which means they will be virtually invisible. There are also PRRs, which is a viable option that is tooth colored. Regardless of the type that is selected, most children will not even be able to feel the difference once they are applied.
PRRs and sealants can last for quite a few years. From time to time, a dentist may restore a sealant on a tooth or several teeth. It is also important to note that just because sealants are placed, it does not mean the child can slow down when it comes to proper oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing. For parents who have more questions about the process, they can contact the staff from Dentistry of Wisconsin for more information.