Monday, July 09, 2007

Preventing Cavities with Dental Sealants
By Administrator Account @ 9:43 AM :: 1062 Views :: Pediatric Dentistry

Preventing Cavities with Dental Sealants
By Michele Beres, RDH at Gentle Family Dentistry

A sealant fills the deep pits & groces of this molar Preventing cavities in children's teeth can be as easy as a dental visit away.

Since the widespread introduction of fluoride into the public drinking water in the 1970's, dental caries in children's teeth are most likely to occur in the pits and fissures of the teeth. Luckily there is an easy way to protect our children from these types of cavities, Dental Sealants.

A dental sealant is a plastic protective layer that is flowed into the deep pits and grooves (fissures) of molars. The purpose of a sealant is to protect the deep areas on the chewing surface of the tooth from bacteria, plaque and food that can’t be reached with a toothbrush. Placing a sealant will shield the tooth from decay or cavities. Fluoride treatments are still recommended however, since fluoride works best on smooth surfaces, where as the sealant simply protects the grooves on the chewing surfaces.

A sealant can be placed as soon as the tooth is fully erupted into the mouth. Children’s permanent first molars erupt around age 6 and second molars around age 12. Not only are sealants ideal for children’s teeth, but they can also be placed on adult teeth provided they are unrestored.

The cost of sealants varies from office to office but sealants cost considerably less than fillings. Sealants are also less invasive since there is no tooth structure removed like there is when decay is present and a filling is necessary. Sealants can last as long as 10 years but 2-4years is a more reasonable average.

Parents should keep in mind that sealants are not a substitute for brushing and flossing. They should still encourage their children to continue to brush, floss and visit their dentist or hygienist for regular cleanings and exams. Call Gentle Family Dentistry at 262-797-8303 to schedule an appointment today.