Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic conditions in children, but the good news is that it’s largely preventable. While brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups and teeth cleaning are essential for good dental health, dental sealants provide an extra layer of protection against cavities. At Kids First Pediatric Dental Care, we believe in giving every child the tools and treatments they need for a lifetime of healthy smiles. In this blog, we’ll explore what dental sealants are, how they work, and why they’re a must-have for your child’s dental health.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made primarily from composite resin that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars) as a preventative measure against tooth decay. These areas are the most prone to cavities because their grooves and crevices can easily trap food debris and bacteria, leading to a buildup of dental plaque.
Why Molars Need Extra Protection
Molars have deep pits and fissures that make them hard to clean with a toothbrush, especially for young children who may not have perfected their tooth-brushing technique. Dental sealants act as a physical barrier, preventing food and bacteria from settling into these hard-to-reach areas.
What is the Procedure Like?
The process of applying dental sealants is quick, pain-free, and non-invasive. Here’s what happens during a typical application:
- Cleaning the Tooth: The tooth is thoroughly cleaned and dried.
- Preparing the Surface: A special gel is applied to roughen the tooth surface slightly, helping the sealant bond better.
- Application: The liquid sealant is painted onto the tooth’s surface.
- Curing the Sealant: A special light hardens the sealant, creating a strong, protective shield for the tooth enamel.
The entire process takes only a few minutes per tooth and can protect against cavities for several years with proper oral hygiene. The patient can eat and drink normally just a few hours after curing.
How are Dental Sealants Maintained?
Teeth that have been treated with dental sealants require the same care as any non-treated teeth: tooth brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups with professional teeth cleaning. During exams, Dr. Malek and our team will ensure the dental sealant remains intact and any necessary touch-ups or replacement can be performed as needed.
Are Dental Sealants Visible?
Dental sealants are made from a clear or enamel-colored resin, blending in with the teeth’s structure and making them virtually invisible to the naked eye. If the patient maintains their oral hygiene routine, they should continue to remain discreet.
Who Can Benefit From Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are most effective when applied to molars as soon as they erupt, usually around age 6 for primary molars and age 12 for permanent molars. They may also be recommended for older children and teenagers who have not yet received them.
Are Sealants Safe?
Yes! Dental sealants have been extensively researched and are considered safe for children. They are a trusted method of cavity prevention recommended by pediatric dentistry professionals and organizations including the American Dental Association (ADA) and World Health Organization (WHO).
They were first developed in the 1960s and have seen widespread use in pediatric dentistry since the 1980s.
Does Insurance Cover Sealants?
Usually! Dental sealants for children are covered by most insurances, including many of those accepted by Kids First Pediatric Dental Care. Check with our office or your dental insurance carrier for additional information about your specific benefits.
Why Use Sealants on Baby Teeth?
Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, are essential for proper chewing, speech development, and even the alignment of adult teeth. Because they are more susceptible to tooth decay than permanent teeth, applying dental sealants can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in these early years and support healthy development.
Ultimately, using dental sealants on baby teeth is a proactive approach that safeguards the child’s dental health, sets the foundation for future oral hygiene, and fosters a positive attitude towards dental care throughout their lives.
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
- Prevents Cavities Effectively: Dental sealants reduce the risk of cavities on molars by up to 80% by sealing out bacteria, dental plaque, and food particles that can lead to tooth decay. If left untreated, cavities can lead to infection, inflammation of the surrounding tissue, damage to the root and pulp, or even tooth loss.
- Saves Time and Money: Preventing cavities with dental sealants is much faster and more cost-effective than treating cavities with procedures such as fillings, root canals, or crowns.
- Painless and Non-Invasive: The application process is simple, quick, and pain-free, requiring no drilling, sedation, or anesthetic.
- Long-Lasting Protection: With proper care, sealants can last for several years before needing replacement.
Ready to Shield Your Child’s Smile? Schedule an Appointment Today!
Don’t wait until a cavity forms—be proactive with your child’s dental health. Schedule an appointment with our Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist Dr. Robert Malek at Kids First Pediatric Dental Care today and ask about dental sealants. Together, we’ll create a smile that will last a lifetime. Call us now at (740) 796-8517 to give your child the gift of a healthy, cavity-free smile!
