Dr. Matt will first perform an oral exam to ensure that there aren’t any present cavities or other oral health problems that need to be treated first. Then, the teeth will be thoroughly cleaned to create a fresh surface to apply the sealants.
The teeth are then dried and an acidic solution is applied to help the adhesive stick. We’ll then rinse and dry the teeth one more time.
The sealants are painted onto the teeth in layers.
When we expose the sealants to UV light, they cure and harden. We can then polish away any excess.
Dental sealants last for a variable amount of time depending on how well they are cared for. Individual differences in lifestyle, oral hygiene, diet, and frequency of dental visits result in differing lifespans.
While they are durable enough to last for up to 10 years, they can become damaged, dislodged, or wear away within 2 to 7 years. This is why it’s important to get frequent checkups so your dentist can check on the condition of your sealants and let you know if they need to be reapplied.
Yes, dental sealants are completely safe despite some health concerns about exposure to BPAs. While BPA levels in your child’s saliva will peak about 3 hours after placement, they return to normal within just 24 hours.
The ADA has stated that there is no evidence to suggest that BPA exposure from dental sealants has caused any adverse health effects. Dental sealants prevent the need for more invasive treatment that may require exposure to harsher chemicals than the minuscule amount of BPAs found in dental sealants.
Yes, most dental insurance plans cover preventive treatments at 80 to 100% of the cost. Dental sealants are considered a preventative treatment that preserves your child’s oral health and seals out tooth decay that would require more expensive and invasive treatment. Contact your insurance provider directly to find out how much of the dental sealant treatment they will cover.
When it comes to your child's oral health, prevention is always better than cure. This is where dental sealants come into play. Dental sealants are a type of protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars) to prevent tooth decay. They work by sealing off the grooves and depressions where food particles and bacteria can accumulate, making them an effective barrier against cavities.
While dental sealants are not strictly "necessary" in the sense that a child can survive without them, they are highly recommended by pediatric dentists, including Dr. Matt at Maple Grove Pediatric Dentistry. The reason is simple: dental sealants can reduce the risk of cavities in children by up to 80%. Considering that tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children, anything that can significantly lower this risk is worth considering.
Dental sealants are designed to be durable and long-lasting. They are made of a special type of plastic that bonds to the tooth surface, creating a hard and smooth coating that can withstand the forces of chewing. With proper care, dental sealants can last for several years.
However, just like any dental restoration, sealants are not indestructible. They can wear down over time, especially if your child has a habit of grinding their teeth or eating hard foods. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the condition of the sealants. If they start to wear off or chip, they can easily be re-applied by your dentist.
One of the biggest concerns parents have about dental procedures is whether they will cause pain or discomfort for their child. The good news is that applying dental sealants is a quick, painless procedure.
The process involves cleaning the tooth surface, applying a special gel to help the sealant bond to the tooth, rinsing and drying the tooth, and then painting on the sealant. There is no drilling or numbing required, and the whole procedure can be completed in a single visit.
Dr. Matt and the team at Maple Grove Pediatric Dentistry are experienced in making dental procedures as comfortable and stress-free as possible for children. They will explain the process in a way that your child can understand, and take every measure to ensure your child feels safe and relaxed.
While the thought of any dental procedure can be daunting for both children and parents, dental sealants are a simple and effective way to protect your child's teeth from decay. They offer significant benefits with minimal discomfort or risk, making them a worthwhile consideration for any parent concerned about their child's oral health.
