Are You a Candidate for Dental Sealants?
Do You Need Dental Sealants?
Did you know that the key to maintaining a healthy and radiant smile lies in taking preventive measures to protect your teeth from potential dental issues? One popular preventive measure is dental sealants, which are designed to shield the deep grooves in the chewing surfaces of your teeth from harmful bacteria, reducing the risk of tooth decay. Dental sealants create a protective shield over the teeth, particularly the back teeth, to ‘seal out’ plaque and food from the chewing surfaces, complementing regular brushing and flossing for comprehensive dental care.
While children are typically the perfect candidates, sometimes adults can benefit from sealants as well. To learn more about dental sealant treatment, contact our dentist in Kennett Square by calling 610-444-6311 to get started.
Ideal Candidates for Dental Sealants
Dental sealants can be a game-changer for individuals prone to developing tooth decay. These thin, plastic coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars) to create a protective barrier over the tooth surface to protect teeth from cavity-causing bacteria, helping preserve tooth enamel.
Children
Children are often at a higher risk of developing cavities due to their still-developing oral hygiene habits, making them more susceptible to dental issues. Dental sealants can serve as a preventive treatment for children who have just had their back teeth erupted, as they help prevent food particles from getting trapped in the grooves of the teeth’s chewing surfaces. Dental sealants help keep children’s teeth healthy by protecting them from decay.
Protecting baby teeth with dental sealants can be beneficial. Baby teeth have a critical role in preserving the perfect spacing for permanent teeth. If baby teeth are lost prematurely due to decay, the permanent teeth may become overcrowded as they grow and occupy the space left by the lost teeth. To prevent this issue, it’s crucial to take measures to avoid allowing children to develop tooth decay.
Adults With Permanent Teeth
Not only do dental sealants benefit children, but they also provide an additional shield for adults seeking optimal oral health. Adults without existing dental fillings or decay in their molars can qualify for dental sealants, especially when applied to newly erupted permanent molars. For adults with healthy teeth, dental sealants could prove to be a worthy investment for long-term oral health. The cost of dental sealants typically ranges from $30 to $40 per tooth, influenced by factors such as geographical location and the type of sealant used.
Patients With Deep Grooves and Pits
Individuals with deep grooves and pits in their molars and premolars are more susceptible to food and bacteria getting trapped in these areas, increasing the risk of cavities. Fissure sealants can fill in these grooves and pits, creating a smoother, easier-to-clean surface.
Patients With Orthodontic Appliances
People undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces or other appliances may find it more challenging to clean their teeth effectively. Sealants can provide an extra layer of protection during this time.
Special Needs Individuals
Individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities that make proper oral hygiene difficult may benefit from dental sealants to reduce the risk of cavities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of patients aren’t a candidate for dental sealants?
Patients with teeth that have been previously filled or whose molars don’t contain deep grooves or pits are not good candidates for dental sealants, as the procedure does not offer more protection than they are already accustomed to providing themselves.
When would a patient need a dental sealant?
Children should get dental sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in to protect them from tooth decay during the cavity-prone years (ages six through 14). Dental sealants act as a barrier, helping to prevent cavities by shielding teeth from bacteria and decay.
How much do dental sealants cost?
Typically, dental sealants cost between $30 to $60 per tooth. Some factors that can affect the price include:
- Geographic location
- Dentist’s experience and expertise
- Number of teeth being sealed
- Whether it’s part of a routine checkup or a separate appointment
Many dental insurance plans cover sealants, especially for children and teenagers, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Determine Your Dental Sealant Candidacy Today!
Dental sealants are a valuable preventive measure for both children and adults seeking to maintain healthy teeth and prevent tooth decay. For children, dental sealants can help protect baby teeth and ensure proper spacing for permanent teeth, while for adults, they can serve as an extra layer of protection against dental issues.
To determine if dental sealants will help improve your oral health, contact our dentist in Kennett Square by calling 610-444-6311 today.