Dental Sealants On Teeth: Pros and Cons
Posted on January 22nd, 2024 | Christopher Neal
Making sure your kids take care of their teeth at home is just as important as making sure they visit the dentist for check-ups. Dental cleanings and exams are a proactive way to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. However, if your child is prone to cavities or has trouble sticking to a dental care routine, there are additional ways you can help protect their teeth.
Dental sealants are a preventative treatment option for both kids and adults. They protect teeth from decay by reducing the bacteria that gather and linger on tooth surfaces. This treatment can significantly reduce the risk of cavity development. Some other benefits of dental sealants include long-lasting protection, painless application, and easy maintenance.
As a parent, you may be asking, “Are dental sealants necessary to protect my child’s teeth from tooth decay?” It depends on your child’s overall oral health and their commitment to proper at-home dental care. If you want to learn more about various dental sealants pros and cons, continue reading!
What Are Dental Sealants for Teeth?
Dental sealants are thin coatings that cover the chewing surfaces of teeth. They create a protective barrier between tooth enamel and food particles that may become trapped in pits and fissures. Sealants smooth these rough surfaces, preventing plaque and tartar build up. Dentists typically apply sealants to premolars and molars at the back of the mouth, where most cavities occur.
Advantages of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants offer the following benefits:
- Cavity Reduction
Dental sealants significantly reduce the risk of cavities, especially in children. In fact, they have been shown to prevent 80% of cavities in the back teeth over 2 years. - Easy and Painless Application
The application of dental sealants is a quick and painless procedure. Once tooth preparation is complete, your dentist will simply paint the sealant material onto the teeth and cure it with a blue light. - Longevity
Dental sealants are long-lasting and durable, maintaining their effectiveness for an extended period. Regular dental check-ups can help ensure they remain in good condition and allow your dentist to recognize when reapplication is necessary. - Cost-Effective
Dental sealants are a preventative measure. By preventing cavities with sealants and proper dental care, you avoid the expenses associated with restorative procedures later on. - Promote Better Oral Health
Cavities can significantly impact your oral health. They can potentially lead to gum disease, dental infections, tooth pain, bad breath, and other complications. Dental sealants help you maintain better oral health by preventing tooth decay before it starts. - Unnoticeable
Dental sealants are virtually invisible on the teeth. - Immediate Protection
Dental sealants offer immediate protection against tooth decay once they are applied. - Easy to Maintain
Dental sealants require the same care as the rest of your teeth. Therefore, maintaining dental sealants is as easy as brushing and flossing twice a day.
Disadvantages of Dental Sealants
Despite their numerous advantages, dental sealants come with a couple drawbacks:
- Limited Applicability
You cannot apply dental sealants on top of an existing filling or cavity. - Durability Can Vary
While generally durable, dental sealants may not be as effective in some cases. Dental habits aimed at maintaining good oral hygiene, such as harsh tooth brushing, can sometimes reduce their longevity.
Contact Chicago KiDDS Pediatric Dentistry for Dental Sealants
If you believe your child would benefit from dental sealants, contact us at Chicago KiDDS Pediatric Dentistry today. One of our qualified dental professionals will be happy to discuss the teeth sealants pros and cons with you. We’re always here to help you decide what dental care is best for your child.
