Why Dental Sealants?

If you have a child or young teen, you may have heard your dentist recommend dental sealants. But what are dental sealants exactly? And why are they necessary? These are questions that we are happy to answer at the office of Dr. Tejal Kakade.

In order to fight back against a higher risk for tooth decay, it is sometimes necessary to take action beyond your routine brushing and flossing. Dental sealants are a simple, cost-effective way to protect the teeth for a 5 to 10 year timeframe. Using dental sealants in children and teens can provide extra protection for a growing smile that is often challenged by poor oral hygiene habits or a high-sugared diet.

A Time-Tested, Cost-Saving Solution

Dental sealants are not new. They have been used in preventative dentistry for over 30 years. A dental sealant is simply a thin plastic coating that is gently applied over the surface of posterior teeth. This resin material fills in deep grooves of those molars to create a smoother surface to clean. Rest assured that your child’s dental sealants will not be noticeable, as it is a tooth-colored material. Dental sealants can prevent bacteria, food debris and plaque from accumulating on the pitted surfaced of the back molars (the chewing teeth). In essence, they can be your best weapon against cavities at a young age.

While a dental sealant can cost between $25 and $50 per tooth, a dental filling for a cavity can add up to $200 to your bill. Not only will you save your wallet, but you’ll also be saving your child from a more invasive procedure. Unlike a dental filling, sealants do not require any local anesthetic or lengthy appointment time. Instead, it is quick and painless procedure with no restrictions afterwards.

While dental sealants are most often used in children, they can also be used for adults who are at a significant risk for tooth decay. If you have further questions surrounding dental sealants, please do not hesitate to ask. Remember that while dental sealants are a powerful preventative tool, they are never meant to replace your routine brushing and flossing.

Call Dr. Kakade in Carrollton today to schedule your appointment for dental sealants. We take pride in our ability to provide complete dental care for every member of your family. When it comes to preventative services such as dental sealants, we will stop at nothing less than excellence to protect your smile!