|
Posted on 10/25/2015 by Allan Hablutzel |
Has your dentist recommended the use of sealants in order to protect your child's permanent teeth? If so, you may have some questions about how sealants work and when they should be used. Who Should Invest in Dental Sealants?Children are the best candidates for dental sealants. Permanent teeth that have just recently erupted will get the best benefits from these protective coverings.Other patients that may benefit from dental sealants include adults that have pits and grooves in the teeth that a dentist believes to be highly susceptible to tooth decay. How Are Sealants Put On?To apply the sealants, the tooth will be cleaned and dried, and a solution will be applied to roughen up the enamel slightly. Next, the tooth will be rinsed and dried again so that the liquid sealant can be painted on. The sealant should harden on its own, but a specialized light may also be used to speed up the process.Are Dental Sealants Effective?Some studies have shown that dental sealants can be 100% effective at protecting the tooth surfaces against cavities. As long as a sealant remains intact, bacteria and small food particles that cause cavities won't be able to penetrate through.How Long Do Sealants Last?As long as a dental sealant stays intact, the surface of the tooth can stay protected. Sealants will hold up for several years before needing reapplication, and in some cases, they can protect the teeth for up to ten years.Are Dental Sealants Expensive?Dental sealant treatment is quite affordable, especially when you consider the protection they are going to offer your child's teeth. Preventing cavities will prevent the need for fillings and other repairs in the future.Most dental insurance companies will cover the cost of sealants, although tooth positioning and age limitations may apply. You should be sure to contact your insurance provider to find out the exact coverage that they might offer. Please contact us if you have any questions about dental sealants. |