Answers to Your Questions about Dental Sealants

As a parent, you want nothing but the best for your child. You want them to grow up and lead happy, healthy lives. There are almost a countless number of factors that play into that being the result of your labors as a parent, one of which is their oral health. Dental sealants can help with that, but if you aren’t already familiar with them you would understandably have some questions.

What Are Sealants?

To start with, let’s look at what dental sealants are. Dental sealants are a thin coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars. This is because molars have recesses on the biting surfaces that can get food particles stuck in them with relative ease. Combine that with a child having a harder time giving their teeth a thorough cleaning, and you have a recipe for cavities and other dental issues. The sealant is typically made from plastic or another dental material and is considered perfectly safe.

Who Should Get Them?

Sealants are most commonly given to children, though adults can get them too. Since the purpose is to provide protection against tooth decay, it’s hard to say that anyone wouldn’t benefit from them in some way. Those that benefit the most, however, are generally children since they tend to have deeper recesses on their teeth and adults are generally better at giving their teeth a thorough brushing.

When Should My Child Have Sealants Applied?

If you decide that dental sealants are right for your child, the next question to answer is when to have it done. The simplest answer is the sooner the better. The earlier they are applied, the less of a chance there is for decay to set in. Of course, if you have any questions or concerns about the timing, your child’s dentist is the best person to ask about it as it concerns your child. If the sealant wears away over time, it can be reapplied later.

If you want to protect your child from tooth decay, having dental sealants applied is a dental procedure that is well worth looking into. Make no mistake - it’s no replacement for a good brushing and flossing. That said, it can certainly make for an excellent tool in your arsenal to help you keep your child’s teeth healthy and strong. It’s safe and effective. What’s not to love about that?

Have other questions about pediatric dentistry? Check out our Pediatric Dentistry FAQ page today!