Dental Sealants: A Good Preventative Measure For Your Child's Teeth

So many kids end up with cavities in the pits of their molars in spite of regular tooth brushing and flossing. It's just hard to clean these pits thoroughly – food often gets stuck and can't be brushed out effectively with a toothbrush, especially when it's wielded by a kid who does not have that much brushing practice. Thankfully, there is a way to protect against cavities in the pits of molars: sealants. Here's a closer look at this dental health solution.

What are sealants?

Dental sealants are plastic seals that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars. Basically, they form a barrier between the tooth and the rest of the mouth, preventing food, oral bacteria, and plaque from coming into direct contact with the tooth enamel in that area.

How are sealants applied?

Sealants are applied in the dental office, and most dentists (especially those who deal with children) offer them. The process is painless. Your child's dentist will ask your child to open wide, and then a liquid sealant will be brushed onto the tooth. It will be allowed to harden for a few minutes, and then your child can rinse their mouth out. Your child might have an odd taste in their mouth for an hour or so, but this is not a major concern for most patients.

Are there any side effects to worry about?

In short, no. Your child won't even know the sealants are there. They can eat and chew completely normally. Nobody can see the sealants, and your child won't be able to see them.

What are the benefits of sealants?

The major benefit of sealants is that they protect against cavities in the most cavity-prone teeth. However, they also offer a few other benefits:

  • They allow you to worry less about the effectiveness of your child's tooth brushing. Your child won't have to spend as much time concentrating on those back teeth.
  • You may save money. The cost of sealants is often less than the cost of filling. Sealants average $35 - $60 per tooth. Fillings cost at least $110 each.
  • Your child won't have to go through the process of having these cavities filled. This process is more involved and scary than having sealants applied.

To learn more about dental sealants and whether they are right for your child, contact a clinic such a Pine Lake Dental Group. They can give you an estimate and address any concerns you might have.

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