Childhood cavity prevention begins at home with proper brushing and flossing, but even the most diligent young brushers can miss hard-to-reach spots. Dental sealants offer an effective additional layer of protection against tooth decay, particularly for children still developing their oral hygiene skills.
At Guadalupe Kids Dental, we believe in preventive approaches that keep children’s smiles healthy while making dental care a positive experience. Our team of pediatric dental professionals is committed to creating a comfortable environment where children of all ages can receive the care they need to maintain optimal oral health.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made from plastic or dental resin applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, molars, and premolars. These surfaces contain deep grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria can easily hide, making them particularly vulnerable to decay.
The sealant material flows into these grooves and hardens, creating a smooth protective barrier that does the following:
- Prevents food and bacteria from settling in the crevices
- Makes teeth easier to clean with regular brushing
- Creates a shield against acid attacks from bacteria
For more information about dental sealants and how effective they may be in preventing cavities, contact our office today!
How Effective Are Dental Sealants in Preventing Cavities?
Dental sealants are remarkably effective at preventing cavities in children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sealants can reduce the risk of decay in molars by nearly 80% shortly after application and continue to protect against 50% of cavities for up to four years.
This significant protection is especially important for children ages 6-14, when they’re most susceptible to cavities in their permanent molars. With proper care and maintenance, sealants can last for several years, providing long-term benefits for your child’s oral health!
When Should Children Get Dental Sealants?
The timing for dental sealants typically coincides with the eruption of permanent molars:
- First permanent molars (6-year molars) erupt around age 6
- Second permanent molars (12-year molars) erupt around age 12
However, dental sealants can be beneficial for children of various ages, including the following:
- Primary (baby) teeth when deep grooves are present
- Teenagers who haven’t previously received sealants
- Children with higher risk factors for cavities
During your child’s regular dental exam at Guadalupe Kids Dental, Dr. Benion will evaluate their teeth and recommend sealants when appropriate.
What is The Dental Sealant Application Process?
One of the greatest advantages of dental sealants is that the application process is quick, painless, and requires no drilling or anesthesia. Here’s what happens during a typical sealant appointment:
- Thorough cleaning: We clean the tooth surface to remove any plaque or food debris.
- Preparation: A gentle etching solution is applied to create a better bonding surface.
- Rinsing and drying: The tooth is rinsed and thoroughly dried.
- Sealant application: The liquid sealant material is carefully painted onto the chewing surface.
- Curing: A special light helps the sealant harden quickly.
- Evaluation: We check the sealant to ensure proper placement and bite comfort.
The entire process takes just a few minutes per tooth, and your child can eat and drink normally immediately afterward.
Are Dental Sealants Safe For Kids?
Dental sealants have been used safely for over 40 years. They’re made from biocompatible materials that are well-tolerated by the body. Some parents express concern about BPA (bisphenol A), but modern dental sealants contain minimal to no BPA, and studies consistently show them to be safe for children.
Cost and Insurance Considerations For Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a cost-effective preventive measure. Many dental insurance plans cover sealants for children and teenagers, as insurers recognize that preventing cavities is less expensive than treating them.
At Guadalupe Kids Dental, we work with most major insurance providers and are happy to verify your coverage for dental sealants. Even without insurance, sealants are an affordable investment in your child’s long-term oral health.
Protecting Your Child’s Smile at Guadalupe Kids Dental With Dental Sealants
Our team at Guadalupe Kids Dental is committed to providing gentle, patient-focused care for children in Seguin, TX. We understand that each child is unique, and we tailor our preventive treatments, including dental sealants, to meet their individual needs. Dr. Benion’s specialized training in pediatric dentistry and experience with special needs patients ensure that your child will receive the highest standard of care in a welcoming, child-friendly environment.
Don’t wait for cavities to develop before taking action. Preventive measures like dental sealants can help your child maintain a healthy smile for years to come. Contact Guadalupe Kids Dental at (830) 209-7262 or our contact form to schedule a dental exam and discuss whether sealants are right for your child.