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Children are more prone to cavities because of the natural shape of their growing teeth. In addition, children's eating habits also lead to cavities because their diet generally includes frequent snacking. By the age of 6 many children are typically brushing their own teeth, but they may not be doing an accurate job. This is where sealants can come into play. Dental sealants are used to protect your children from cavities and are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to act as a guard between the tooth and harmful bacteria in the mouth. They are the most effective when applied to decay-susceptible biting surfaces as soon as the teeth come in. All You Need to Know About Sealants According to the Academy of General Dentistry, studies have proven that properly applied sealants are 100-percent effective in protecting the tooth surfaces from cavities. As long as the sealant remains intact, small food particles and bacteria that cause cavities cannot penetrate through or around a sealant. The protection is reduced or lost when part or the entire bond between the tooth and sealant is broken. Dental sealants are liquid coatings that harden on to the chewing surfaces of the teeth and are showing a great deal of effectiveness in preventing cavities-even on teeth where decay has begun. They are applied by first cleaning the tooth surface and followed by etching the tooth with a chemical substance that allows the sealant to properly adhere to the tooth. After the sealant is applied, a warming light is used directly to the site to promote faster drying. In order for sealants to successfully protect your child's teeth from cavities, they should be re-applied to the teeth every 5 to 10 years. Keep Your Child's Teeth Healthy At-home care can also help keep your child's dental problems at a minimum. Beginning at age two, children should begin to brush their own teeth with their parent's help. It is important to use a small, softer brush with a small amount of toothpaste. After the age of eight, children can begin to brush and floss their teeth on their own; though parents should check on them to make sure they are brushing and flossing appropriately. In addition, children need to maintain a healthy diet to help their bodies, mind and teeth grow strong. Pay close attention to make sure your child drinks plenty of mild and eats other calcium rich foods, including yogurt and cheese. Calcium rich foods can fight the bad effects of other foods that children eat, like sticky candy and starchy food. With a parent's help, check-ups at the dentist's office, and brushing and flossing at home, children can be on their way to having healthy habits for life. Begin protecting your children's teeth today by talking to your dentist in Mooresville about the application of dental sealants. It is never too soon to begin preventative measures for your child, so begin now.
Sean Hartmen writes for Lake Norman Cosmetic Dentistry, a leading family and general dentist in Mooresville. Offering a full array of general and cosmetic dental care, including veneers, teeth whitening and dental implants, Drs. Patel and Patel, Mooresville dentists, are qualified to handle every dental need for patients of every age. Patients can also visit the practice implant site at www.dentalminiimplant.com
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