By Macy Marcham, RDH
Sealants & Varnish Explained
As a dental hygienist, especially during Children’s Dental Health Month in February, I get a lot of questions from parents about keeping their kids’ smiles healthy. And a big part of that is understanding child dental cavity prevention. Today, I want to break down two really effective tools we use: sealants and fluoride varnish.
You probably know about brushing and flossing, but these in-office treatments add an extra layer of protection. Let’s dive in!
Sealants: My Go-To for Protecting Those Chewing Surfaces
Think of your child’s molars – those back teeth – as having tiny little canyons and crevices. It’s so easy for food and bacteria to get stuck in there, and even with the best brushing, it can be tough to clean them out. That’s where sealants come in for effective child dental cavity prevention.
- What they are: I apply a thin, tooth-colored coating right onto those chewing surfaces. It basically fills in the grooves, making it smooth and easy to clean.
- Who benefits: I highly recommend sealants for kids and teens as soon as their permanent molars come in. It’s a proactive way to prevent cavities.
- The application process: It’s super quick and painless! Kids usually don’t even notice.
- How long they last: Sealants can last for years! We check them at regular appointments to make sure they’re still doing their job.
Fluoride Varnish: A Quick Boost of Strength for Child Dental Cavity Prevention
Now, fluoride varnish works a little differently. It’s all about strengthening the enamel itself, which is crucial for child dental cavity prevention.
- What It Is: It’s a concentrated fluoride treatment that I paint directly onto the teeth.
- Application: It takes just a few minutes, and it dries quickly. No more messy trays!
- Who Benefits? Everyone can benefit, but especially kids and adults who are prone to cavities.
- How It Works:
- It helps rebuild weakened enamel, making it stronger against acid attacks.
- It also helps to stop the bacteria that cause cavities in the first place.
The Dynamic Duo: Combining Sealants and Varnish for Child Dental Cavity Prevention
Look, sealants and varnish aren’t magic. They work best when you’re also brushing twice a day and flossing every night. They’re just extra tools in our toolbox to help with child dental cavity prevention.
Which one is right for your child?
Every child is different. That’s why I always recommend talking to your dentist or hygienist. We can assess your child’s risk for cavities and recommend the best treatment plan.
So, next time you’re in the office, ask us about sealants and fluoride varnish! We’re here to help you keep those smiles bright and healthy.
