Are Dental Sealants Safe?
It is vital for patients to practice good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene includes brushing the teeth at least twice each day and flossing daily. Patients should also make regular visits to the dentist about every six months for an examination and professional cleaning.
While brushing and flossing are very important, they can’t always prevent decay. Dental sealants are an excellent treatment that helps prevent the development of cavities in children. The procedure is quick, simple, inexpensive, and safe. A dental sealant is a thin coating that is painted on the chewing surface of a tooth to protect it from cavities and decay.
Dental sealants are a very common treatment which are used in the prevention of cavities. While sealants have been in use for decades, some patients question their safety and may question if they are cost-effective.
Cost
Dental sealants are incredibly quick to apply and painless. The average cost for the procedure is about $30 to $60 for each tooth. In some cases, dental insurance will help cover some or all of the cost. Sealants are a common practice used by dentists. Because they are safe and highly effective, they continue to gain popularity. Patients are often surprised to learn that sealants have been used for more than 50 years.
Research
Based on a report from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), dental sealants can prevent 80 percent of cavities for up to two years after they are applied. For up to four years, they protect against 50 percent of dental cavities. A sealant can remain in a patient’s mouth for up to nine years.
Just over 40 percent of children between the ages of 6-11 have dental sealants. Children who do not have sealants are up to three times more likely to develop a cavity.
One major benefit of a sealant is that it can prevent the need for costly treatments in the future. Dental fillings, crowns, and other types of treatments can be incredibly expensive and time-consuming. Sealants are considered to be one of the most conservative, noninvasive dental treatments currently available. Dental professionals will monitor the sealant during routine visits to ensure they are maintained and do not require repair or replacement.
Challenges
There are some potential challenges associated with sealants. In order for the sealant to be successful, it must be properly placed. If the sealant falls out, chips, or wears away over time, it must be reapplied. Any excess material that is present after the application must be removed. Another potential complication of seals is that the extra material can negatively affect the patient’s bite. This can typically be adjusted or will often be resolved with use.
Benefits
When a dental sealant is perfectly applied, it can last forever. They often do not require replacement after the initial application. The sealant can be used on primary or baby teeth. The patient must simply be able to tolerate the quick and painless procedure. The patient should be able to keep their mouth open and remain open for a few minutes during the application.
Adult patients can also benefit from the use of sealants. Our risk of decay actually increases as we age. This can also be impacted by certain medications and other factors.
Call the office today if you are interested in having dental sealants applied to your teeth or your children’s teeth. Sealants are an excellent treatment which are incredibly safe and effective in preventing cavities.