Do you want to know more about dental sealants? Do you want to know if they're a good option for your child's dental health? Well, look no further. When it comes to your children's oral health, you can speak with your Grand Forks, ND, family dentist, Dr. Steven Erlandson.

More About Sealants

A sealant is a thin coat applied to the surface of teeth, preferably the chewing surfaces. They prevent bacteria, as well as other debris, into the grooves and pits of your teeth.

Your teeth consist of grooves and pits where decay can grow and compromise the health of your teeth. Unfortunately, brushing and flossing doesn't always reach decay, which is why sealants were developed about 50 years ago. Today, they are still used as a preventative measure for children.

Maintaining Sealants with Your Family Dentist

If bacteria settles in, cavities can begin to eat away at your child's teeth. That's why it's important to help your child maintain a consistent oral regiment in which they:

• Brush and floss daily
• Visit the dentist twice a year for a checkup and professional cleaning
• Drink plenty of water to wash away food debris
• Avoid sugary food and supplement it with fruits and vegetables
• Use fluoride-containing mouthwash and toothpaste

Importance of Sealants

Getting dental sealants is not difficult or painful.

• Your Grand Forks dentist will clean and dry your child's tooth
• An acid gel is applied
• Your child's tooth will become rougher on the chewing surface
• Your doctor will then remove the gel, dry the tooth, and apply sealant onto the grooves
• The dentist will expose the sealant to a special dental light to harden the sealant

Sealants are beneficial to children and adults, and the sooner you get them the sooner your teeth will be protected, so when you visit your dentist, make sure you ask them about sealants. If you have any more questions or concerns, you can schedule an appointment with your Grand Forks, ND, family dentist, Dr. Erlandson, at (701) 772-6581.