The Truth About Dental Sealants

It can be hard to protect your child’s teeth from cavities caused by poor brushing habits. Whether they still don’t understand the importance of oral health, or they can’t quite reach every surface of the tooth easily, giving kids some extra help protecting their teeth can go a long way towards preventing decay.

Thankfully, dental sealants can provide an added layer of protection to some of those harder to reach spaces, helping to ward off cavities and keep tooth enamel strong. In fact, according to the CDC, kids without sealants have on average three times more cavities than kids who do have them.  If you’ve been considering getting dental sealants for your child, here’s some important information to help you make your decision.

What Are Dental Sealants?

A dental sealant is a thin coat of resin composite that is applied to the tooth to help seal any grooves that could be vulnerable to tooth decay. Think of it like a raincoat for your child’s tooth. The sealant creates a barrier between the tooth and any outside debris, keeping the tooth healthy and helping to reduce the risk of cavities by up to 80 percent.

Where Are Dental Sealants Applied?

Most sealants are applied to the chewing surface of the back teeth.  Though some are colored, most sealants are clear, so they are not visible when your child opens their mouth. To attach a sealant, first the tooth is roughened with an acidic gel. After a few seconds, the dentist will rinse away the gel and apply the sealant directly to the tooth with a brush. Then it is hardened with a special blue light. The whole process takes only a few minutes, and it is completely painless.

How Long Do Sealants Last?

Sealants are quite durable and should last for several years. Your dentist will keep a close eye on them at your child’s semi-annual checkups and can reapply them as needed.

Will My Dental Insurance Cover Sealants?

Because dental insurance is intended for preventive care, many plans will cover sealants, especially for children. However, check your individual policy or speak to your dentist to see if yours will include them.

Are Dental Sealants Safe?

Yes. In fact, while dental sealants do contain a small amount of BPA, this amount is so minute compared to what you are exposed to by simply touching a store receipt or applying makeup.

Who Should Get Sealants?

Anyone of any age can get sealants, but the earlier they are applied, the better their results. They can even be applied over areas with existing tooth decay to prevent further damage.

Sealants are a safe and easy way to protect the teeth from tooth decay and cavities. They can be applied to the teeth in mere moments, last for years, and may even be covered by your dental insurance. Help your child protect their smile and speak to your dentist about sealants today.

About Dr. Davis

Dr. Maggie Davis is a board-certified pediatric dentist who prides herself on providing comprehensive dental care in a safe, comforting environment. Dr. Davis is also a Diplomate in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a distinction that is earned by less than three percent of all dentists.

If your child needs dental sealants or any other dental procedure, visit the website of Dr. Maggie Davis & Associates Pediatric Dentists today, or call us at 727-472-8662.