Tooth decay and cavities are common in children: about 46% of children aged two to 19 years have at least one untreated or restored cavity. Dental sealants are an effective treatment that can prevent as much as 80% of cavities. Here’s what to know.
Dental sealants are liquid coatings applied to the back teeth or molars. Your dentist cures the liquid, hardening it to seal the teeth and protect against decay and cavities.
Sealants come in three main forms, and vary in color, including clear, white, and pink. Current practice guidelines do not recommend one type over another, so the material used may depend on your dentist’s technique and preference.
Common sealants include:
Sealants play an important role in cavity prevention in children in a few ways, including coating natural grooves, creating a physical barrier, and improving oral hygiene.
Molars have natural pits, grooves, and cracks where bacteria and food particles collect, making these teeth especially prone to decay and cavities. Sealants coat all these grooves and pits and create a smooth, sealed surface, making it difficult for bacteria to enter. It also stops food debris from collecting in these areas and decaying.
Tooth enamel contains minerals. Contact with acids from foods, drinks, and mouth bacteria can break down these minerals, eventually leading to cavities. Sealants act as a physical barrier, protecting the enamel and preventing or stopping demineralization.
Additionally, dental sealants improve teeth cleaning and overall oral hygiene. Grooves, pits, and cracks are deep and hard to reach with a toothbrush, especially for children, which increases the risk of stuck food and decay. A sealant protects the tooth and creates a smooth surface where food can’t enter, making cleaning easier.
Sealants are durable and effective and provide several key benefits, including long-lasting protection, dental cost savings, and minimal disruption.
Nine in 10 cavities occur in the back teeth, and children ages six to 11 without sealants have three times more cavities in molars than children with sealants. Dental sealants applied to these teeth can prevent 80% of cavities over two years and 50% over four years.
The dental sealant procedure is non-invasive and painless and doesn't require anesthesia. It's quick and can easily be integrated into your regular check-up or cleaning appointment, creating a positive experience for your child.
As a preventive treatment, applying sealants to molars can help families save on expensive dental treatment costs related to tooth decay and cavities. In addition, most dental insurance plans cover 100% of preventive treatments and services, creating even more savings.
Dental sealants are an excellent defense against childhood cavities and a simple procedure to help your child maintain healthy, strong teeth. Our board-certified pediatric dental team provides innovative treatments tailored to your child’s needs, with a dash of fun, adventure, and comfort for a positive experience. Book an appointment, and learn how we can help you.
Call 614-475-5439 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.
