Have your children received sealants? If not, you may want to consider the information below. It may help to protect their permanent teeth from decay.
What Are Sealants?
Bacteria are the main culprits that lead to cavities. Residues from food and other consumed items have a propensity to stick to teeth or rest on chewing surfaces. When these are left for a period of time, bacteria feed on these and produce acids that damage the teeth. The deep pits of molars are especially susceptible to this effect because they have numerous grooves and pits that can be hard to clean with a toothbrush. Sealants are placed over these pits and groves to protect the teeth from bacteria.
When Can My Child Receive Sealants?
Sealants are placed on permanent molars and premolars. Children usually have their first set of molars between the ages of 6 and 8. The second molars usually arrive between the years 10 and 12. As soon as these molars fully erupt from the gums, they can be sealed. Sealants are very effective. In fact, dental insurers find that between 60 and 70 percent of cavities are prevented in children when sealants are placed. The good news is that sealants are a painless procedure.
Michelle Wang DDS can apply sealants in just a few minutes per tooth. What is more, dental sealants are considered preventative dental care. Therefore, most dental insurers cover dental sealants at 100% of costs.
Would you like more information about getting dental sealants for your children? Give us a call. Our dental team will give your child a full dental exam and determine if sealants will benefit them. Sealants can only be placed on chewing surfaces of the teeth that have not been previously filled. If done properly, the patient can avoid future problems like root canals, fillings, and extractions.