How Dental Sealants Reduce the Risk of a Dental Emergency

If a cavity develops and worsens, it could lead to the risk of a dental emergency due to an infection or severe discomfort. Dental sealants significantly reduce the risk of a dental emergency by helping to prevent cavities in vulnerable areas of teeth. Read on to learn how dental sealants can prevent a dental emergency in your child.

What is the purpose of dental sealants?

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that a dentist applies during an in-office procedure. The purpose of dental sealants is to protect the chewing surfaces of premolars and molars from tooth decay. They are commonly used for children who still have their primary teeth or have recently grown their permanent teeth and need to protect them from dental decay.

Dental sealants for cavity and dental emergency prevention

Many pediatric dentists recommend dental sealants for children between six to 14 years of age. They are especially important for the molars since they often have deep grooves and pits where plaque can be easily trapped.

What is a dental emergency?

In addition to reducing the risk of dental decay, dental sealants also reduce the risk of a dental emergency. An oral health concern requiring prompt attention from a dental professional is considered a dental emergency. Dental trauma (such as damage to the mouth during an auto accident) is one form of a dental emergency. However, an oral infection or severe cavity that damages the root of a tooth may also be considered an emergency.

How can dental sealants reduce the risk of a dental emergency?

Dental sealants reduce the risk of a dental emergency by protecting the grooves of molars and premolars from decay. If decay develops in these vulnerable areas and remains untreated, it can lead to an oral infection or deep decay that damages the root of a tooth. This damage can lead to severe pain and sensitivity. Early tooth loss could cause issues for children whose teeth are still developing, leading to the improper eruption of permanent teeth.

How can my child take care of their dental sealants?

Staying vigilant in the care of dental sealants through good at-home oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and limiting sugar and carbohydrate consumption is important. This will require efforts from both children and their parents. Otherwise, cavities can still occur in other parts of teeth, and the sealants can wear down prematurely and leave molars and premolars vulnerable. Vulnerability opens the door to decay, infection, and trauma of the tooth, leading to time and money-consuming treatments.