Children have a better chance of growing up cavity free than we did. One of the most comprehensive studies on dental sealants was conducted in Minnesota and reported by the Minnesota Dental Association in February during Children’s Dental Health Month.
The study conducted over fifteen years found that children who received dental sealants had 62% fewer cavities than those children who did not have sealants. Presently only 8% of children receive sealants. This is a significant. Why would you not have your children get dental sealants. The only two reasons that I can think of is either the lack of education by the dentist or money. I am telling you this so the only other reason is money. Guess what? They can cost as little as $25.00 per tooth. Our office offers dental sealants not only to children, but to adults that may be prone to cavities. If it works and is affordable- use it. I tell my patients that dentistry is not expensive, only neglect is. Most of us can afford $25.00 to prevent hundreds or even thousands of dollars of dentistry. Here are a few more facts about dental sealants.

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings which are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. Most tooth decay in children and adolescents occurs on the chewing surfaces of these back teeth or molars. This is because molars have irregular surfaces with pits and grooves which tend to trap food and bacterial debris. Sealants flow into and coat these pits and grooves so that bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay.

Which Teeth are Suitable for Sealants?

The teeth most likely to benefit from sealant application are the first and second molars just after they have erupted and before they have had a chance to decay. First molars generally appear at about six years of age and second molars at about twelve years of age. Once a tooth has matured it is less prone to decay. Children between the ages of five and fourteen benefit most from sealants. After an examination a dentist will determine which teeth can be sealed.

How are Sealants Applied?

Applying sealants is quite simple and may be done by a dentist or a dental hygienist First the teeth are cleaned. Then the teeth to be sealed are dabbed with a very mild acid solution similar in strength to vinegar or lemon juice. This roughens the tooth surface slightly so that the sealant will bond to it properly. After the tooth is prepared the sealant is painted onto the tooth. It flows into the pits and grooves and hardens in about 60 seconds. After sealing, bacteria cannot reach the pit and grooves and cause decay. Applying sealants requires no drilling or removal of the tooth surface.

Are Sealants Visible?

Yes sealants can be seen upon close examination of the back teeth.

Sealants can be clear white or slightly tinted. Remember sealants are used only on the back teeth and cannot be seen when a child talks or smiles. Parents can check children’s teeth periodically to see if the sealants are still in place.

Will Sealants Make Teeth Feel Different?

Sealants will not result in any change in bite because they are very thin and only fill the pits and grooves. At first the tooth may feel bulkier, but a few days of normal chewing will wear the sealant into place.

Have Sealants Been Thoroughly Tested?

Yes, thousands of children across the United States and in other countries have had their teeth sealed in controlled clinical studies. These studies have shown sealants to be effective, easy to apply inexpensive and non toxic. Sealants are approved and have been recommended by the American Dental Association, National Institute of Health and the American Public Health Association.

Why is Sealing a Tooth Better Than Waiting for Decay and Filling a Cavity?

Sealants help maintain sound, intact teeth. Decay destroys the structures of the tooth. Each time a tooth is filled or a filling is replaced, additional tooth structure is lost. Amalgam fillings last an average of six to eight years before they need to be replaced. Appropriate use of sealants can save time, money and the discomfort associated with restorative dental procedures.

Do Sealants Cost More Than Fillings?

Although the cost of sealing teeth may vary, the cost is consistently less than having a tooth filled.

Who Should Have Their Teeth Sealed?

Any child or adult interested in preventing cavities and expensive dental bills.