A dental sealant is a thin coating of acrylic resin applied to the biting surface of some teeth (usually just the molars and premolars) to give them an added layer of protection against cavities. Sealants can be applied to both permanent and baby teeth (as soon as the teeth develop, in fact), and are considered to be a preventative measure to keep teeth healthy. If your dentist suggests dental sealants for your child, do you need to do anything to prepare them for the procedure?

Quick and Non-Invasive

The application of a dental sealant doesn't take much time, nor is it invasive. The sealant is precisely applied to the biting surface of your child's molars and premolars. A curing light (or air blower) is then targeted at the teeth so that the sealant dries and hardens (and this only takes minutes). This won't be uncomfortable for your child, but a thorough professional dental cleaning is needed before the sealant can be applied. 

The Need for Professional Cleaning

A dental cleaning won't be painful, but it can result in some minor discomfort. This can be a bit frightening for some children, so you might want to explain the need for the process. The dentist or dental hygienist could also explain the procedure before they begin. Professional cleaning is designed to remove plaque and tartar, which a regular toothbrush might leave behind. The removal of plaque and tartar (along with excess oral bacteria) is essential before a dental sealant can be used; otherwise, these potentially destructive elements will be sealed in, causing the teeth to deteriorate beneath their resin coating.

Scraping and Brushing

The most intensive part of a professional cleaning is when a dentist or dental hygienist scrapes the teeth (which is an efficient way to remove plaque and tartar). This is usually followed by actual brushing, using an electric toothbrush and a gritty toothpaste designed to exfoliate the surfaces of your child's teeth. If your child is worried about the prospect of professional cleaning, remind them that while the vibrations caused by the cleaning might feel a little uncomfortable, the surfaces of their teeth don't actually have any nerves, so it won't hurt.

So if your dentist tells you that your child will benefit from a dental sealant, remind your child that it's quick and easy, won't cause them any pain, and will protect their teeth — keeping their smile in good shape for years to come.

Contact a clinic like Family Dentistry Of Woodstock to learn more.