Why Your Child Should Get Sealants

Cavities are the leading cause of dental appointments for children. Some kids may get them as soon as their teeth erupt. 

The breakdown of enamel is caused by carbohydrates in the diet. The bacteria in your child’s mouth feed on carbohydrates, and as the bacteria break the carbs down, they release an acid that eats away at tooth enamel. 

A diet high in sugary cereals, pastries, soda, and sweets increases the risk of cavities. However, protein and fats don’t have an impact on your child’s risk of developing cavities. 

Aside from making healthier choices for your child — which includes feeding them balanced meals with protein, fats, and healthy carbohydrates coming from vegetables — you can also opt for dental sealants. 

Below, we asked our experts at Greenwich Dentistry to explain how dental sealants can prevent cavities and help you avoid a hefty medical bill.

Sealants 101 

Sealants are thin coatings of plastic that our experts apply on the back molars, where the majority of the cavities occur. 

The sealants fill the crevices and the grooves that are more likely to store food particles and are harder to reach with a toothbrush. Once put in place, sealants can last up to 10 years. 

At what age your child can get sealants

As soon as your child gets their first set of molars, which is usually around the age of six, you can opt for sealants. 

When they reach the age of 12, and their second set of molars emerges, you can schedule an appointment to get a protective sealant on those as well. 

What to expect at the dental office 

Unlike fillings — which take longer to fix, cost more, and cause more discomfort during the procedure — sealants can be applied within minutes. 

One of our experts uses a special solution to coat your child’s molars and dries the solution with a special light. Then the sealant is in place. 

How effective sealants are at preventing cavities 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dental sealants can prevent 80% of the cavities on the back teeth, where the majority of cavities occur. 

Many insurance plans cover dental sealants, but even if you have to pay out-of-pocket, dental sealants are significantly cheaper compared to dental fillings. 

Ensure your child’s teeth stay cavity-free with dental sealants 

Contact us to schedule an appointment, and ensure your child’s teeth are protected with an affordable yet powerful solution against cavities. Dental sealants can also be applied for adults who want to protect their molars against decay.