In Encinitas CA, times have changed for the dental industry. Kids Dentist in Encinitas can now get dental sealants. These are a thin, plastic coating which is placed on the chewing surfaces of the permanent molars and does wondrous things. The actual material flows and covers the grooves of the teeth, which forms a protective shield. For parents, this ensures that plaque or bacteria is not able to seep into the vulnerable pits and fissures of the child’s teeth.

The sealant process for each tooth will take about three minutes per tooth. Prior to applying sealant, each tooth will be cleaned and brushed thoroughly to remove any plaque or food particles. Afterwards, the selected tooth will be isolated from saliva and soft tissue. Etchant, a conditioner is then painted on the tooth, making the surface rough so the sealant can adhere. Afterwards, a drying primer is used to make the tooth dry quickly. Sealant material is then carefully applied to the grooves of the tooth. A curing light is utilized to make the material harden and bond to the tooth.

Kids Dentist in Encinitas references a study in 2004 done by The American Dental Association (ADA), which found that 42% of children between the ages of 6 to 19 years of age had dental decay. Sealants are 80% effective in reducing chewing surface decay for children and adolescents in Encinitas CA. Carlsbad Children’s Dentistry at 760-633-1131 feels prevention is a much better option than seeing a child suffer with tooth decay.