Preventive measures are of high importance in making sure that your child has healthy teeth and gums. One of the most effective means of preventing decay in young teeth is dental sealants. But as a parent, you may ask, “Are dental sealants safe for my child?” This blog will look into the composition, benefits, and safety of dental sealants, and why they might be the perfect addition to your child’s oral care routine. For families seeking expert care in children’s dentistry in Irvine, this guide comes in handy.
What Are Dental Sealants Made Of?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, molars, and premolars. These are highly susceptible to decay due to the grooves and pits, in which food and bacteria particles could easily be trapped.
Sealants are primarily made from medical-grade plastic or safer dental materials. They are either resin-based or glass ionomer-based sealants. There is approval granted by dental health authorities for both resin-based and glass ionomer-based sealants. The most used are resin-based sealants, which mean they really provide a hard resistance toward cavities. Glass ionomer sealants release fluoride over time as well.
Benefits of Dental Sealants for Kids
Dental sealants come in a lot of advantages, especially in a child’s ability to have great oral hygiene. Thus, the sealant becomes so popular among dental clinics which attend to pediatric care.
- Prevents Cavities : Sealants can prevent as many as 80% of cavities in molars, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Cost-Effective: Sealants to prevent cavities are significantly less costly than fillings or crowns in the treatment process.
- Non-Invasive: The application of sealants is quick, painless, and non-invasive, with no drilling or numbing.
- Long-Lasting Protection: Sealants can last for several years with proper care, providing long-term protection against decay.
Are Dental Sealants Safe for Your Child?
Safety has been the paramount issue among parents for the well-being of their child, and their main concern was usually health-related. However, extensive studies regarding dental sealants indicate their safety in using these products with children.
- Biocompatibility: The materials used to formulate dental sealants are biocompatible and applied solely for oral use.
- Low BPA Levels: Another worry of parents is BPA exposure, which is a chemical present in certain plastics. Even though trace levels of BPA might be detected in some dental sealants, these levels are minuscule compared to the exposure a child might receive through a water bottle or other commonly used item. The American Dental Association concurs that the advantages of sealants greatly outweigh any negligible risks.
- No Known Side Effects: Sealants have been used for decades, with no significant side effects reported. They are well-tolerated by children and provide a safe way to protect teeth.
When Should Your Child Get Dental Sealants?
The best time to have dental sealants applied is at the earliest moment when a child’s permanent molars come in, which is around ages 6 and 12. However, younger children with deep grooves in their baby teeth may also benefit from sealants. Regular visits to a pediatric dentist near me can help determine the best timing for your child.
How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
Dental sealants have an easy application procedure, which can be carried out in one sitting. Here’s how it will be done.
- Cleaning: This will be a professional cleaning procedure performed by the dentist to eliminate all the plaques and debris stuck on your teeth.
- Preparation: A chemical will be put on your teeth for creating a surface so that it adheres perfectly with the sealant material.
- Application: The dentist paints the sealant material onto your chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- Curing: There is a special curing light used to harden the sealant. This gives a protective shield.
The entire process is quick and stress-free. This makes it an excellent option for young children.
Partnering with Experts in Children’s Dentistry
Nothing gives you more happiness than ensuring the oral health of your child. With dental sealants, you ensure the safety and effectiveness of cavity protection for your child’s teeth at a minimal cost, for healthy smiles for a lifetime. If you are looking for trusted care in children’s dentistry near you, then we are here for you at Irvine Orthodontics & Children’s Dentistry. Our team is well-experienced to provide the best preventive and comprehensive dental care for your child.
Schedule an appointment today to learn more about how dental sealants can benefit your child. Let us partner with you in creating a brighter, healthier future for your little one!