Benefits Of Dental Sealants For Children

Wouldn’t it be fantastic if there was a way to add a layer of protection to reduce your child’s risk of developing tooth decay? Guess what… there is! Dental sealants, which are easy and painless to apply to a child’s permanent molars, are extremely effective in helping avert cavities.

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a protective barrier applied to the teeth. While in place, they help prevent food particles, bacteria, and harmful acids from causing tooth decay. Sealants are not meant to replace regular brushing, flossing, and preventative dental appointments. They simply provide an extra layer of defense for your child’s molars. Over time, dental sealants wear away and must be replaced by new dental sealants. If the teeth remain healthy, dental sealants can be used throughout a person’s entire life.

How are Dental Sealants Applied?

The process of applying dental sealants is quick, easy, and done during your child’s regular dental appointment. Because it requires a few extra minutes, be sure to mention that you want dental sealants applied to your child’s teeth when you call to schedule the appointment.

After cleaning and examining your child’s teeth, your dentist will decide if the teeth are healthy enough for sealants. If they are, the teeth are prepared for the sealant material. The material is then brushed on the teeth with something that looks like a small paintbrush. A special light helps the material harden for a strong seal. And… that’s it!

Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children

The advantages of dental sealants are numerous. First and foremost, dental sealants can prevent tooth decay. Other benefits include the following:

Sealants are optimal for young children. As soon as your child’s permanent molars erupt, dental sealants can be applied. Young children are notorious for not brushing and flossing very well. Dental sealants add an extra layer of protection against tooth decay in molars that your child might not be brushing effectively.

Dental sealants are safe. Most children have absolutely no adverse reaction to dental sealants. Nevertheless, it’s important to address any of your concerns with your child’s dentist before sealants are applied.

Many adults benefit from sealants. When permanent molars erupt, sealants provide protection in children. In many cases, sealants can also be applied to healthy adult teeth. Make sure to ask your dentist for more information on dental sealants for adults.

Dental sealants can last several years. Over the course of time, dental sealants wear away and must be replaced by new sealants. The length of time that sealants remain intact depends on several factors. In many cases, sealants can last several years. Your child’s dentist will check the sealants at every preventative appointment and will let you know when it’s time to replace them.

Dental insurance might cover the cost of sealants. Many dental insurance plans cover the cost of dental sealants. If you have dental insurance, call to find out if dental sealants are part of your coverage. If you do not have dental insurance, consider the cost of sealants vs. the cost of filling a cavity. Dental sealants are a worthwhile preventative measure to protect your child’s teeth!

If you have any questions about dental sealants for children or adults, please contact Brookview Dental. We are happy to talk with you about the many reasons you should consider dental sealants as a way to help keep teeth healthy.