A pediatric dentist is a dentist who specializes in caring for the teeth and gums of pediatric patients—toddlers, children and adolescents. Pediatric patients tend to require more preventive care than adults because their teeth and gums are more prone to cavities and other infections. For example, toddlers tend to consume a lot of juice, which is typically sugary and, thus, leads to cavities. Children who consume a lot of sugar do not always practice the best oral hygiene. Again, this results in children's teeth and gums being more vulnerable.
Thankfully, there is a pediatric dentistry solution that helps keep cavities at a minimum. Dental sealants are a quick and easy procedure that functions as a preventive treatment. Below is an overview of why dental sealants may be used in pediatric dentistry for children. Parents who are considering dental sealants for their child should carefully review the following information.
A dental sealant is an extremely thin protective coating that is painted directly over a tooth that engages in chewing. Typically, dental sealants are made of plastic materials that come in liquid form. They are placed on the chewing surfaces of teeth that are in the very back of the mouth, otherwise known as molars.
In a pediatric dentistry setting, parents should expect the procedure to go seamlessly for their children. The child will first need a dental cleaning to ensure there is nothing left on the teeth that could get in the way of the sealants. After the teeth have been thoroughly cleaned and dried, the pediatric dentist will use a dental tool to paint the dental sealant material onto the teeth. In some cases, a special curing light may be used to harden the liquid material and seal off the tooth.
Pediatric dentistry procedures like dental sealant placement are meant to protect children's teeth so that cavities do not form. Additionally, this preventive measure helps eliminate the need for dental restorations, such as fillings, crowns and even root canals. The procedure is painless, very quick and does not require any special care afterward. Most pediatric dentists will recommend sealants for baby teeth. Sealants can also be placed on a child's adult teeth once they begin to grow in.
It can be difficult to prepare for any pediatric dentistry procedure. Children are not always keen on going to the dentist. Dental visits can result in fear and anxiety, which can make it difficult to get the procedure done. Thankfully, a pediatric dentist can help. These specialists can explain the procedure to the child in simpler terms, and they can help the child understand the tools and instruments that will be used.
For parents who are looking into dental sealants for their children, the next step is consulting with a pediatric dentistry practice. Any questions or concerns regarding the procedure or preparing for it can be appropriately addressed by staff. Reach out today to learn more or to get scheduled for an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentistry in Richmond, TX.
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