It’s important to protect children’s molars from decay, and dental sealants are a popular way to do this. But are they necessary for every child? A pediatric dentist in Grass Lake will be able to help you determine whether sealants are advisable based on the child and their age, oral hygiene, risk of decay, and other factors.
Sealants are food-safe thin coatings applied to the grooves in the back teeth to prevent food and bacteria from getting inside. Dental sealants are an effective and popular option, but worries and questions around the ingredients and the necessity have increased in past few years.
Are Dental Sealants Necessary?
Sealants can be very effective for children who have deep grooves in their molars or cavities. The CDC says dental sealants can lower the chance of cavities in back teeth by almost 80%. While brushing and flossing are important, sealants provide additional protection in hard-to-reach areas.
Sealants are the best when applied soon after the permanent molars have erupted, which can vary between ages 6 and 12. A pediatric dentist near you can determine your child’s needs and when sealants should be applied.
Can You Eat with Sealant on Your Teeth?
Yes, kids can eat normally after the dental sealants are put on. Sealants harden quickly (often with the help of a curing light), and children can go back to their normal routines almost immediately. There are a few things to keep in mind during the first 24 hours, though:
- Try to limit sticky or chewy candies such as caramels or taffy.
- Avoid biting into ice or hard candies.
- Minimize very hot or cold items if teeth feel a little sensitive.
Once the sealants have completely set, it will be safe to eat normal foods. As with regular teeth, keeping up with good oral hygiene will help extend the sealant duration and help avoid food from getting stuck around the edges.
What Is the Dental Sealant Controversy?
- BPA Concerns: Some parents worry about bisphenol A (BPA) in dental sealants.
- Minimal Exposure: Studies indicate, dental sealants expose children to BPA, but the BPA exposure from sealants is quite minimal and far less than the common exposure children get through food, air or water.
- ADA Assurance: The American Dental Association has stated that dental sealants are safe. Any BPA from the sealant will dissipate in a few hours after the application.
- Overuse Debate: Some question if dental sealants are even necessary and how often we should get them.
- Individual Need: Dental sealants are not necessary for all children, but they are recommended for children with moderate to high cariogenic risk.
- Personalized Recommendations: Children who have dental sealants in Grass Lake are given personalized and specialty recommendations and advice; it is not a one-size-fits-all recommendation.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Dental Sealants?
Pros
- Cavity Prevention: Can prevent up to 80% of cavities in your molars.
- Simple Process: It’s quick and relatively painless.
- Durability: It lasts a long time (around 10 years in good conditions).
- Safety: It’s safe and widely practiced.
Cons
- Impacted Teeth: It will not work on already decayed or poorly cleaned teeth.
- Reapplication: After a while, you may need to reapply as it wears down.
- Allergic Reactions: Very rare allergic reactions can occur (but are very rare).
Protect Growing Smiles with Proven Prevention; Book Your Appointment!
In short, dental sealants are a safe and easy way to prevent cavities in kids, notably in teeth with deep grooves, such as molars. Sealants are applied quickly and painlessly in a dental office and are recommended as part of a proactive dental plan. Would you like to know if sealants are right for your child? Schedule a visit today at Grass Lake Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, and our amazing team will help you make the most educated decision for your child’s oral health now and into the future.
FAQs
Do sealants work on baby teeth?
Yes, if a pediatric dentist encounters a child prone to cavities, they may apply sealants to their primary molars for added protection.
How often do sealants need to be replaced?
Sealants can last 5 to 10 years, but they need to be assessed for wear or chipping at regular dental appointments.
Can sealants fall off?
Sealants can become worn down or come off over time, but reapplication is easy and quick.
Is there a fluoride version of sealants?
No, but many dentists combine sealants with fluoride treatments for full cavity protection in children.
