While Wiregrass Dental is not a specialty pediatric practice, we are proud to provide preventive and protective services for children to help them maintain healthy smiles as they grow. Two of the most effective tools we recommend for children and teens are dental sealants and custom mouthguards.
Sealants provide an extra layer of protection for your child’s back teeth, also known as molars. These teeth do most of the heavy chewing and can be tricky to clean, making them more likely to develop cavities. Molars usually come in around ages 5–7, with a second set appearing between 11–14. Placing sealants soon after the molars erupt helps guard against decay early on.
The procedure is quick and painless. A light adhesive is applied to the tooth, followed by the sealant material, which is painted on as a thin liquid. It then hardens into a smooth coating that keeps food and bacteria from settling into the grooves of the teeth. Sealants can last up to 10 years and can be touched up or reapplied if needed.
If your child plays sports where contact is likely—such as football, basketball, hockey, lacrosse, soccer, baseball, softball, or wrestling—a mouthguard is one of the best ways to protect their teeth and jaw. In addition to preventing chips, fractures, or tooth loss, mouthguards help shield the lips, cheeks, and tongue from injury. Research has also shown that wearing a properly fitted mouthguard can reduce the risk of concussions.
While over-the-counter mouthguards are easy to find in sporting goods stores, they often fit poorly and can feel bulky or uncomfortable. For the best protection, we recommend a custom-fitted mouthguard made in our office. These are designed specifically for your child’s mouth, using durable yet thin plastic that makes it easier to breathe, speak, and play with confidence.
