You’ve Just Been Told Your Child Needs Dental Sealants. Understanding Pros and Cons of Pediatric Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are intended to both shield teeth and avert tooth decay. Commonly used to protect back molars due to these being primary chewing surfaces, sealants can be used to protect any teeth that need it. Dr. Sona Isharani and the team at Triad Pediatric Dentistry understands that early oral wellness is critical to maintaining a healthy smile as an adult and offers dental sealants to children in the Greensboro, NC area. As with any treatment, there are both pros and cons to weigh when it comes to dental sealants.

Children and Tooth Decay

Before we discuss the pros and cons of dental sealants, let’s look at why it’s so important to protect your child from tooth decay. Did you know that tooth decay is one of the most widespread diseases in children throughout the United States? Research carried out by the Center for Disease Control found that near 20% of children between the ages of 6 and 11 and near 60% of children between the ages of 12 and 19 suffer from tooth decay. Dental Sealants are an effective preventive measure in the fight against tooth decay in children. A thin coating is applied to the teeth that block acid from damaging the enamel and also stops plaque and tartar buildup.

The Pros of Dental Sealants

• Receiving dental sealants is quick and pain-free. Each sealant takes just minutes to apply.

• Incredibly effective in preventing cavities, especially in the molars. A reduction of near 80% in cavities has been found in children who have sealants.

• Sealants are very durable and, in some cases, can last a lifetime. Replacing a sealant is very easy when necessary.

• Sealants are not noticeable.

• They are great for children who are having difficulty in properly brushing their teeth.

The Cons of Dental Sealants

• Sealants are not effective for teeth that already exhibit signs of decay or that have already been filled.

• In some cases, sealants may only last 5 to 10 years before requiring replacement.

• It’s possible to receive a sealant on a tooth that has a cavity that has not been treated. In these cases, the unnoticed cavity could lead to further problems. Make sure to have any tooth checked for cavities before being sealed.

• Your dental insurance may not cover the procedure due to some insurance providers considering dental sealants a cosmetic procedure.

To learn more about dental sealants offered by Dr. Isharani at Triad Pediatric Dentistry, please call (336) 804-8668.