Dental sealants are a type of dental treatment intended to prevent tooth decay in children.
One of the newest things in pediatric dentistry is using something called “dental sealants.” They are supposed to reduce the risk that children’s teeth will succumb to dental cavities. It’s the first line of defense against damage to the teeth. If you are wondering if they are worth the cost to protect your child’s oral health, they might be worth it in more than just financial ways.
There is nothing that can produce a worse impression of the dentist’s office for a child than having a cavity filled. Having a cavity is a very unnerving experience, and the process of having it drilled and filled can leave lasting dental anxiety for your child. If you can prevent them from having a cavity in the first place, then it is better for your child than to wait for a cavity to form and address it after the fact.
What are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are recommended for those who are prone to dental cavities, like young kids and teenagers – even those who still have their baby teeth. They were designed to fill in the porous part of the teeth where bacteria can gather and start to create tooth decay. For kids who have unusually deep grooves and pits in their teeth, sealants help to close up the cracks and prevent particles from getting lodged and creating cavities.
Will They Cause Your Child Pain?
Dental sealants are completely pain-free. They are applied to the teeth with a liquid resin that hardens quickly. It only takes a few minutes to both apply and dry. The sealants are a great alternative to risking having your child develop a cavity, which can be painful to fill and repair.
How Long Will They Last?
Once your child has had sealants put on, they are estimated to last up to ten years. This means that for children who have had them placed on baby teeth, that is long enough to save them for quite some time from the pain and anxiety of having cavities. Sealant material does wear down over time, so you never have to worry about having them removed. Also, with good oral habits, you can extend the sealants’ lifetime for as long as they are needed.
If your child has porous teeth with deep or rough ridges, then having dental sealants put on is an excellent way to keep their teeth cavity-free and to ensure that their dental visits aren’t fraught with anxiety and pain. Since they are completely pain-free, the small cost of sealants is well worth it to avoid the anxiety and cost of having your child’s cavity filled.
St. Louis Pediatric Dentistry
At The Dental Anesthesia Center, your child’s initial oral examination will include a visual examination, charting, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations. We work hard to make your child feel at ease by providing exceptional patient care in a relaxed, convenient atmosphere. Depending on your child’s circumstances, we will discuss if sedation or anesthesia is right for your child.
Call us today to schedule your appointment at (314) 862-7844. We look forward to meeting you!