Many well-meaning parents and guardians mistakenly assume that tooth decay in baby teeth doesn’t matter. After all, their primary teeth usually fall out anyway, so it can’t harm their dental health, right?
Wrong! Unfortunately, tooth decay is contagious and can spread from one tooth to another, and can even affect your child’s jawbone or how their permanent teeth develop and grow later on. Thankfully, many pediatric dentists offer sealants to prevent cavities from developing in the first place. If you’re unfamiliar with this standard preventive service, continue reading to learn about 3 helpful FAQs and responses!
Question #1: How are Dental Sealants Different from Fillings?
You may already know that dental fillings are the tried-and-true treatment for cavities for kids and adults alike. It’s only natural to wonder what dental sealants are used for and how they’re different.
One of the key distinctions between these two services is the intent. Dental fillings consist of color-matched composite resin and are applied to damaged enamel to repair and restore decayed teeth so your child can continue using them to eat, speak, and smile confidently.
Meanwhile, dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that cover the chewing surfaces of your kid’s teeth to help keep cavities from forming in the first place. That means sealants are a popular preventive measure, while fillings are more restorative.
Question #2: When Are Dental Sealants Recommended?
Dental sealants function like raincoats for your child’s enamel that prevent leftover food particles and bacteria from forming acids that erode the protective outer layer of their teeth. Technically, they can be offered to both children and adults, although they’re generally more effective when placed earlier.
As a result, the American Dental Association recommends that children and adolescents receive this treatment on the biting surfaces of their teeth, specifically molars, shortly after they’ve erupted. This usually occurs between ages 6 and 12, making this the ideal time to place dental sealants.
Question #3: How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Are you wondering how long these protective shields can help protect you or your child’s smile? Most people can expect them to last anywhere between 5 and 10+ years, though their longevity can depend significantly on the unique circumstances of the patient.
For instance, your diet and dental hygiene habits can significantly affect how long dental sealants will last. Sugary foods attract harmful bacteria, which produce acids that wear down the material faster, so you may want to minimize your kid’s consumption. You can also help maintain sealants with routine brushing and flossing and by visiting your child’s pediatric dentist for a routine exam and cleaning every 6 months.
If you’re unsure whether your child might need this treatment, you can learn more by scheduling an appointment with their provider!
Meet the Author
Dr. Vuppala is an accomplished dentist who is passionate about helping children build and maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. He earned his dental doctorate from the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry and has become certified in various topics, including level 2 sedation, Invisalign, and laser dentistry. Today, he delivers a complete menu of pediatric services, including dental sealants, to meet your child’s unique needs under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or call (432) 520-5437.