By age 19 most children have had one or more decayed teeth. One highly effective option to help prevent cavities is what is known as a Sealant. Sealants have been proven to be a safe and cost-efficient procedure for patients prone to cavities. Sealants are a thin plastic film painted on the chewing surface of teeth.
Some of the Benefits of Dental Sealants
• Paired with good oral health care, sealants are 100 percent effective against cavities in teeth that are sealed and properly maintained.
• Minimally invasive, safe and effective procedure.
• Cost less than getting a cavity filled.
How do
Sealants Work?
Dental sealants act as a barrier to “seal off” space between the tooth surface and any small food particles or bacteria that may otherwise cause a cavity in an “unsealed” tooth. When paired with brushing and flossing daily and eating a healthy diet along with visiting the dentist twice a year to monitor the sealants they are an excellent way to prevent cavities.
At What Age Should You Get Sealants?
Children should begin to get sealants when they get there 1st permanent molars. Adults are also great candidates for sealants. If your insurance doesn’t have sealants as a covered benefit, just remember its cheaper to place a sealant than the cost of a filling. Remember dental sealants do not protect against gum disease such as gingivitis, oral cancer, or other common dental conditions, regular checkups are important for your overall oral health.
I hope this Tooth Talk has helped please call or email any questions, Integrity Dental Care, PLLC, dr.jmitchell@integritydentalcares.com, (615) 445-8700.