Plainview NE Dentist | One Simple Treatment Can Save Your Child’s Smile

Plainview NE Dentist | One Simple Treatment Can Save Your Child’s Smile

Our dentist might suggest dental sealants for your child during a visit to our office. Sealants are a way to protect your teeth against decay. With any dental treatment, it helps to understand the procedure and how it can impact your child’s oral health.

Why Get Sealants?

Sealants help to prevent tooth decay. Sealants are applied on the back teeth, where decay is most likely to develop. Our dentist will often recommend sealants for children and teens, but adults may benefit from sealants, as well.

The further your teeth are in the back of your mouth, the more difficult it can be to maintain the proper hygiene needed to keep them healthy. Sealants can prevent up to 80% of decay within the first two years alone. After 4 years, sealants continue to prevent as much as 50% of decay. Children without sealants are more than three times as likely to develop tooth decay than those with sealants.

When Should You Get Them?

Your child’s first molars usually become visible around age 6, with the second set around age 12. You will want to talk to us about the best course of action for keeping molars healthy. Sealants are most effective when they are done as soon as the molars break through. Regular examinations with our dentist will determine the best time to have sealants applied.

What Should I Expect?

Sealants are one of the simplest treatments we perform in our office. There is generally no discomfort associated with this process. We will first thoroughly clean your child’s teeth, and then use a special gel. The gel is then cleaned off before the sealant is applied. A small blue light is used to harden the sealant in a matter of moments.

What Concerns Should I Have?

There are no side-effects from sealants, and allergic reactions are extremely rare. However, talk to our doctor about any allergies your child has so we can discuss the best possible course of action.

Next Steps

Sealants last for years before needing to be reapplied. It is important to schedule regular visits to our office so that our dentist can check the condition of the sealants and teeth on an ongoing basis. If your child had sealants several years ago and you are unsure if they should be reapplied, schedule an appointment with us.

For more tips on keeping teeth healthy and for questions about dental sealants, contact our office.

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Plainview Dental Office

Plainview Location

406 West Locust Ave,
Plainview, NE 68769

(402) 582-3344

Dr. Christina Cambre - Creighton and Plainview

Our Dental News

4mw8v5fpz3cjMXp8xFoNI7gIop0hixUNUfZXydv9

The Impact of Smoking on Oral Health and How to Quit

Smoking is recognized as a significant risk factor for numerous health conditions, many of which directly affect oral health. The harmful chemicals present in tobacco products can lead to a variety of oral issues, including gum disease, tooth discoloration, and […]

Learn More
4mw8v5fpz3cjMXp8xFoNI7gIop0hixUNUfZXydv9

Emergency Dentistry: Navigating Dental Crises with Confidence

Dental emergencies can arise unexpectedly, causing discomfort, anxiety, and uncertainty on how to respond. At Family 1st Dental of Plainview, we understand the challenges faced during these urgent situations. From severe toothaches to broken teeth, being prepared and knowing where […]

Learn More
4mw8v5fpz3cjMXp8xFoNI7gIop0hixUNUfZXydv9

Understanding Sleep Apnea and How Dental Therapy Can Help

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that affects breathing while asleep. Characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing, sleep apnea can lead to severe complications if left untreated, including daytime fatigue and cardiovascular issues. Understanding its implications and seeking effective […]

Learn More