At Dental DeZigns, your child’s smile is our priority. During your visit to our office in Mokena, our dentist may recommend dental sealants to safeguard your child’s teeth against decay. Understanding this simple yet effective treatment can help you make informed decisions about your child’s oral health.

Why Choose Sealants?

Sealants serve as a proactive measure to prevent tooth decay, particularly in the back teeth where decay is most prevalent. While commonly recommended for children and teens, adults can also benefit from sealants. These protective coatings can ward off up to 80% of decay within the first two years and continue to offer significant protection, reducing decay by 50% even after four years. Children without sealants are at a significantly higher risk of developing tooth decay compared to those with sealants.

When to Consider Sealants

Your child’s first molars typically emerge around age 6, followed by the second set around age 12. It’s crucial to discuss with our dentist the optimal timing for applying sealants to keep molars healthy. Sealants are most effective when applied soon after the molars erupt, underscoring the importance of regular dental examinations to determine the ideal timing for treatment.

What to Expect During Treatment

Sealants are a straightforward procedure performed in our office with minimal discomfort. After thoroughly cleaning your child’s teeth, we apply a special gel followed by the sealant. A brief exposure to a blue light quickly hardens the sealant, completing the process in moments.

Addressing Concerns

Sealants are safe, with no known side effects and extremely rare allergic reactions. However, it’s essential to inform our dentist of any allergies your child may have to ensure the safest course of action.

Ensuring Long-Term Protection

Sealants offer years of protection before requiring reapplication. Regular visits to our Mokena office enable our dentist to monitor the condition of the sealants and your child’s teeth, ensuring ongoing oral health. If you’re uncertain whether your child’s sealants need to be reapplied, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us for a thorough evaluation.

Take the Next Step

For additional tips on maintaining healthy teeth or to learn more about dental sealants, reach out to Dental DeZigns today. Your child’s bright, healthy smile starts here.