Going to the dentist and getting necessary dental treatments can be more complicated with special needs children. Here are some tips and suggestions for getting your special needs child the dental care they need, and how we can help.
Unfortunately, cavities are still one of the most common oral health problems for both children and adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 45% of children between the ages of 2-19 have one or more cavities (treated or untreated). Younger children are especially vulnerable to developing cavities for several reasons, from eating sugary snacks and drinks to their still-forming brushing technique.
Dental sealants offer children an added layer of protection that also makes it easier for them to brush their teeth. At Oasis Pediatric Dental Care & Orthodontics, our dentists Dr. Nathalie Phaeton and Dr. Ki Youn Kil, offer pediatric dentistry services at our office in Falls Church, Virginia.
Many parents naturally wonder whether dental sealants are actually safe for their children. The American Dental Association (ADA) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have both determined that dental sealants are safe for children and adults. Sealants are made from plastic, which some people try to avoid, but the benefits outweigh the risks, and they’re recommended to help protect children’s teeth from decay.
Our dentists and team are available to discuss your concerns and answer your questions about dental sealants for your children.
Dental sealants are available once your child’s molars have fully erupted, which usually happens around age six. While sealants are safe, there are a few things to consider. For starters, sealants are not a substitute for regular dental checkups and cleanings and a good oral hygiene routine.
Your children will still have to brush and floss their teeth as normal after getting sealants, but the good news is that sealants actually help younger children to adequately brush their teeth. Sealants create a flat surface on the chewing surface of the back molars, making it easier to brush while keeping food and bacteria out.
Additionally, existing cavities and dental issues will usually have to be treated before the sealants are placed.
Sealants have a pretty long shelf life, but they don’t last forever. According to information from the CDC, they can provide protection of up to 80% of cavities within the first two years. They can become less effective over time, but still offer approximately 50% cavity protection after four years. In most cases, sealants can last for up to nine years.
For more information about dental sealants and other pediatric dental services available at Oasis Pediatric Dental Care & Orthodontics, call us at 703-498-2440 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Phaeton or Dr. Kil. You can also schedule an appointment online.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Going to the dentist and getting necessary dental treatments can be more complicated with special needs children. Here are some tips and suggestions for getting your special needs child the dental care they need, and how we can help.
Accidents and mishaps are a normal part of childhood, and chances are that your child will be faced with a dental emergency at some point. Here’s what you need to know about childhood dental emergencies and when to call the dentist.
Dental anxiety can interfere with your child’s oral health and development. Here are some tips and tricks to help them feel less anxious at their next dental appointment.
Your child’s first dental visit can be a scary or exciting time, depending on how you (both) look at it. Here’s what to expect at the first appointment, and how to prepare them (and you) for a lifetime of good oral health and reduced dental anxiety.
Baby teeth may be temporary, but they play an important role in your child’s healthy development and future oral health. Here’s what you need to know about when to make your child’s first dental appointment.
Children are especially vulnerable to oral health issues ranging from cavities to bite and alignment issues that require orthodontics. Here are some of the most common pediatric oral health issues and what to look out for.