Are Dental Sealants Effective?
Written by Paul Vera on August 3rd, 2017
It’s important to start protecting your child’s teeth as soon as possible. Dental sealants are a great way to give your child the best defense against bacteria and plaque.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings placed on the chewing surface of back teeth to protect the teeth from bacteria and acids that cause tooth decay. Dental sealants last for up to ten years, but we’ll check them during regular dental appointments to ensure they have not chipped or worn away.
How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
It’s a quick and painless procedure! We paint on dental sealants in a liquid form that quickly hardens to create a shield against bacteria, acids, and food particles.
What Are The Benefits Of Dental Sealants?
While brushing and flossing removes food particles and plaque from the mouth, they aren’t always able to reach all the way into the grooves and in between the teeth where food and plaque build up. Dental sealants add another level of protection against tooth decay by sealing the teeth off from food particles and stopping bacteria and acids from settling on your teeth, which can cause cavities and plaque to form over time.
When Should Your Child Get Dental Sealants?
The earlier your child gets dental sealants, the better. Of course, you have to wait until the molars appear, and your dentist may recommend sealants for primary (baby) teeth as well as permanent ones. By sealing the molars off as soon as possible, they can stay cavity-free from the start. This builds a stronger base for your child’s dental health, and can save you a lot of money in the long run!
Are Dental Sealants Effective & Safe?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), dental sealants placed on permanent molars reduce the risk of cavities by 80%. Dental sealants can also help stop the growth of a cavity by sealing it off to further infection.
There is a concern that dental sealants can expose your children to BPA. At Sunshine Pediatric Dentistry, we offer BPA-free dental sealants, so you don’t have to worry about that risk. Your comfort and the safety of your children is important to us!
If you think your child is ready for dental sealants, bring her in for an appointment!
New Patient Specials
New patients only. Regular cost or orthodontic treatment can be between $2,500 and $6,000. No cash value. Call our office for details!
Includes a professional cleaning, exam, & fluoride. No cash value, not combinable, not valid with insurance. Offer valid for new patients, only.
Value of $326
Includes a professional cleaning, exam, x-rays & fluoride. No cash value, not combinable, not valid with insurance. Offer valid for new patients, only.
Value of $418