Should My Child Get Teeth Sealants?

As a parent taking your child to the dentist or dental hygienist, you’ve probably heard the term “sealant” or “preventative sealants” being thrown around. You’ve probably gathered some loose information about what they are and why they can be beneficial for your child. Here are all the facts about sealants and why you should consider them for your child’s oral hygiene.

What are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are best described as a plastic coating painted onto the teeth. Because they are “painted” onto the teeth, they fit perfectly to the unique grooves and pits of a person’s teeth. They are particularly useful when applied to permanent molars when they have been fully grown and offer an extra layer of protection to the teeth.

What Do Dental Sealants Do?
Sealants are applied to the teeth in order to keep bacteria and food debris from becoming trapped within the pits and fissures of the teeth. This is done because, even consistent oral hygiene through brushing and flossing cannot access the tiny spots in the pits and fissures of the tooth, therefore leaving it susceptible to cavities, plaque, and tartar build up.In this way, Dental Sealants are especially beneficial for children who tend to put less priority on oral hygiene, especially during the ages when their teeth are most vulnerable to decay.

The Cons of Dental Sealants
Dental Sealants are not everlasting. They usually last for 5-8 years before they begin to wear away. This means that you will have to maintain upkeep.

The Pros of Dental Sealants
Dental Sealants cut down on almost half the amount of cavities that children get throughout their lifetime. Other than the protective benefits that sealants provide, they are also easy to apply to the mouth, pain free, and easy to reapply when they start to wear down (simply paint on a new coat over the old one). In addition to this, dental sealants are an inexpensive and affordable way to add an extra layer of protection. In fact, most dental insurance plans will cover the cost of dental sealants.

Sealants are a great extra layer of protection for your teeth but they will not make your teeth invincible. Regular brushing and flossing is still required to maintain overall teeth and gum health. If your child is ready to receive dental sealants to promote their oral hygiene health, consider how the pros may outweigh the cons to keep your child’s smile healthy and bright.

Maple Dental Hygiene Care offers Dental Sealant Applications for healthy smiles. If you or your child would like to receive this service by an expert dental hygienist in Vaughan, call us today at 410.835.5002 or visit the Maple Dental Hygiene Care website to book an appointment.

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