A Simple Way to Prevent Child Tooth Decay Dental sealants help compensate for a child’s inability to brush properly. Even though they try hard, they're still learning, and their hand-to-eye coordination isn't fully developed. Even with meticulous brushing, it is possible that the deep grooves in the back teeth may be missed. These hard-to-reach brushing areas even elude adults. Poorly cleaned teeth can permit the accumulation of bacteria, acids, and plaque, which will later cause decay. And once a tooth has decay, it is damaged forever and will likely need a filling or a crown. A dental sealant procedure is done as follows: The tooth (or teeth) is cleansed and sterilized. A white or clear plastic coating is lightly brushed on their tooth enamel. A curing light is focused on the sealant to bond it into place. In very little time, without shots or drills, the entire process is finished. The application of dental sealants is harmless and one of the best things both ch...
