Are Dental Sealants Safe for Your Child

Proper dental hygiene is essential in preventing dental issues such as tooth decay. However, brushing and flossing cannot eliminate all food particles from every nook and cranny from the back teeth.

Dental sealants are thin clear plastic coatings used to cover the surface of the back teeth to prevent tooth cavities. They are bonded into the grooves and depressions of the molars to form a shield on each enamel.

Anyone can get dental sealants. However, our pediatric dentist near you recommends getting the sealants as soon as they get their permanent teeth in children. This way, the sealants protect the teeth during the cavity-prone years of between 6 to12.

Milk teeth play an essential role in holding the correct spacing for permanent teeth. In addition, dental sealants can be used on baby teeth if they have deep grooves or depressions.

Why Are Dental Sealants Important?

Molars and premolars’ chewing surfaces have fissures, making them vulnerable to tooth decay. Some cracks can be profound and narrower, making them difficult to clean. In addition, plaque accumulates on these fissures, making it a breeding ground for bacteria.

The bacteria produce acid that attacks the enamel creating cavities. Dental sealants in Houston provide extra protection on the pitted surface by providing smooth coverage. In addition, they cover up the pits to keep out food particles from accumulating from building up.

Sealants can also be used to cover decay while in its early stages. They prevent further damage to your teeth, preventing tooth loss. Studies prove that sealants can reduce the 80 % risk of dental decay.

Dental sealants are easy to maintain and repair and can last up to five years. Annually or regular dental check visits are required to check their progress and replace them If needed.

Dental Sealants Application Process

The process is painless and straightforward. It will take a few minutes for the specialist to apply the sealants on every tooth. At Molar Bear Pediatric Dentistry the following steps are done:

• Tooth preparation. The teeth are polished to ensure that the sealant will bond properly. A small brush and a drill are used. The drill spins the brush as it scrubs on the tooth’s surface. The dentist may do extra steps if the debris proves to be stubborn.
• Tooth isolation. The teeth are dried and then wrapped with cotton. The cotton prevents saliva from contaminating the teeth, weakening the enamel and sealant bond.
• Etching. The dentist will place an acidic solution on the fissured area for several seconds before rinsing it off. The acid creates small microscopic regions on the surface. These tiny areas enable the sealant to attach to the tooth.
• Sealant application. The dry tooth is applied a liquid plastic on the tooth’s grooves. This process uses a small brush or mini syringe to squirt the sealant out. The sealant is then hardened using a special light. If the sealant interferes with your bite, the dentist will use a dental drill to thin it.

After the process is finished, the new sealant is now ready to use. Now you are ready to chew and eat without issues.

Types of Dental Sealants

There are different options for dental sealants near you. In addition, the materials have slight differences from each other. Therefore, considerations are made before the dentist chooses what is best for their clients.

• Composite Resin Sealants

They are tooth-colored to blend in naturally with the teeth. Composite resins do not release fluoride over time. They have to be bonded on the teeth using a curing light.

• Glass Ionomers

They are a more flexible material that is used more on baby teeth. This material is not hardened by light. However, two compounds are mixed to create an acid-based reaction applied to the teeth.  Over time, it releases fluoride to the child’s teeth, strengthening them.

Insurance Cover for Dental Sealants

Many insurance companies cover dental sealants costs, especially for clients under the age of 18. Contact your dental insurance coverage plan to confirm if the sealants are covered.

Side Effects

Dental sealants are very safe for your loved ones and have no side effects. However, discuss with the dentist for possible allergy reactions.