To Seal or Not to Seal
posted: Aug. 25, 2019.
Yes, that’s right. We’re talking about sealants, yet again. Why do we keep throwing this information at you time and time again? It’s kind of like when your teacher used to repeat the same thing over and over again in class. Write it down and underline it because it’s probably going to be on the test. In that same way, we talk a lot about sealants on your child’s teeth. As a kids dentist in Anderson, we want to make sure you are well informed about the protective benefits of sealants and what your options are.
Let’s review what sealants are and what they do. Dental sealants consist of a plastic material that is painted on the chewing surface of the back teeth- the molars and premolars. This sealant does just what its name implies. It seals out bacteria and acids and that contribute to tooth decay and helps to protect the teeth. Typically, Anderson Pediatric Dentistry and other pediatric dentists will seal the permanent molars and premolars so that food and bacteria do not get into the natural fissures and grooves of the teeth.
(image from dentaltown.com)
Why do we place sealants on the molars and pre-molars? These teeth are the ones that naturally get more grooves and fissures as your child gets older. Those grooves and fissures in the teeth are exactly where bacteria and plaque like to hang out and form cavities. According to the CDC, dental sealants prevent 80% of cavities in the back teeth, where 9 in 10 cavities occur. The CDC also states that school-age children (ages 6-11) without sealants, have almost 3 times more 1st molar cavities than children with sealants. That’s a staggering number for such a quick and easy preventative measure!
(Image from cdc.gov)
Anderson Pediatric Dentistry encourages you to learn more about sealants and how they can help your child remain cavity-free. We’re always here to answer your questions and as your trusted Anderson kids dentist, we want to always give you Something to Smile About! If you are searching for a dental home, we would love to be your child’s dentist and partner in great oral health. Call our office today at 864-760-1440. And don’t forget to check out our website for more dental resources at www.andersonpediatricdentistry.com.
https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/dental_sealant_program/index.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/dental-sealants/index.html