Of all the teeth, molars and premolars (or bicuspids) are especially at risk for cavities and tooth decay. Their grooves and pits easily trap food particles, making them a fertile breeding ground for plaque.
Dental sealants—thin coatings of plastic or glass-like material applied to the chewing surface of teeth—can play a vital role in promoting and maintaining oral health for patients of all ages. Because children are at particular risk of tooth decay, dentists often recommend pediatric dental sealants.
Keep reading for answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about dental sealants for children.
Are Dental Sealants for Children Necessary?
Children’s dental sealants go a long way toward helping children’s teeth stay healthy and cavity-free.
Several factors make children prone to cavities and tooth decay (dental caries):
- Children often have poor oral hygiene habits.
They don’t always brush their teeth properly or regularly. Their limited manual dexterity may also make it difficult for them to thoroughly clean their teeth.
- Children tend to consume more sugary foods and drinks.
Their diet can lead to the growth of harmful, cavity-causing bacteria.
- Children have teeth that are still developing.
Their teeth’s enamel, the protective outer layer, is not as strong as the enamel of adult teeth and is more susceptible to damage.
For all these reasons, children’s teeth can benefit greatly from the protection pediatric dental sealants provide.
Sealants can also help ensure better oral health maintenance. They provide a smooth, protective coating over tooth surfaces. This surface is a barrier that stops food particles and bacteria from settling into deep grooves. It also makes it easier for children to thoroughly brush and clean their teeth.
When Should Children Get Dental Sealants?
As soon as children’s permanent molars erupt, usually between 6 and 12 years of age, dentists often recommend sealants. Because primary (baby) teeth aren’t meant to last a lifetime, dentists focus more on educating parents and children about proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups to maintain good oral health until the permanent teeth come in.
On the other hand, dentists may sometimes recommend sealants for primary teeth with deep grooves or fissures. Although baby teeth are temporary, protecting any that may be particularly susceptible to decay can help reduce the risk of premature tooth loss and ensure overall oral health.
What Are the Dental Sealants Used on Children’s Teeth?
The two most common types of dental sealants are resin-based sealants and glass ionomer sealants.
Although resin-based sealants are the most commonly used overall, glass ionomer sealants are a popular option for children. The glass-like material they are made of contains fluoride, providing an additional layer of protection against tooth decay.
In addition, some sealants combine resin-based and glass ionomer materials. These hybrid sealants offer the advantages of both types, providing a highly effective and long-lasting protective coating.
How Are Pediatric Dental Sealants Applied?
The process of placing dental sealants is straightforward, quick, and painless.
Dentists thoroughly clean and dry the teeth. They apply the sealant in liquid form to the teeth, then bond it to the tooth surface using a special curing light, often a blue light. The material hardens in seconds. Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
Regular dental checkups are necessary to check the sealants’ condition and ensure they are intact. If any are chipped or worn down, dentists can easily reapply them to maintain protection.
How Long Do Sealants Last on Children’s Teeth?
Dental sealants provide long-lasting protection. They can last several years with proper care and regular dental checkups. Children can thus enjoy sealants’ benefits throughout their crucial oral development stages.
While sealants provide a long-lasting extra layer of protection against tooth decay, remember they are not a substitute for regular brushing, flossing, and using a fluoride rinse. Children should continue to practice proper oral hygiene and should see their dentist on a regular basis.
How Affordable Are Dental Sealants for Children?
Pediatric dental sealants are a cost-effective preventive treatment that helps children maintain a healthy smile without breaking the bank. Compared to other dental treatments, sealants are quite affordable. Their cost is significantly lower, for example, than that of fillings or crowns.
Additionally, dental sealants are a wise investment in your child’s future oral health. They help save children from potential pain and discomfort, and save grown-ups from paying for more invasive, expensive procedures later.
Penn Dental Medicine at PHMC Public Health Campus on Cedar is a reliable, leading provider of low-cost pediatric dentistry in Philadelphia.
Our coordinated care team includes faculty, residents, and students. Predoctoral students and dental residents from The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine provide care under the supervision of licensed, experienced faculty dentists to ensure the highest-quality care.
PDM at PHMC on Cedar’s educational mission means you pay far less for pediatric dentist treatments in Philadelphia than you would at most private practices.
Protect your child’s teeth with sealants, a sure foundation for a healthy and happy smile. Schedule your appointment at PDM at PHMC on Cedar online now or call us at 855-887-9229.
