Why Are Dental Sealants Recommended for Children?

Dental sealants are a preventive treatment that can greatly benefit young children who have just had their permanent molars come through. Sealants can also benefit children with baby teeth, particularly those vulnerable to decay. The following article discusses the numerous benefits of dental sealants for children.

The benefits of dental sealants for children

Dental sealants for children reduce the risk of dental decay and the associated restorative procedures. They are also cost-effective and noninvasive, which are bonuses for both parents and children. The following is a more detailed look at the benefits dental sealants offer children of all ages.

Reduces risk of dental decay

The primary purpose of dental sealants is to reduce the overall risk of tooth decay (cavities). This is especially important immediately after the emergence of permanent premolars and molars. They are also helpful for developing permanent teeth to protect primary molars and premolars from decay.

May avoid the need for restorative care

If cavities develop, children, like adults, require a restorative procedure to restore the appearance and health of each affected tooth. The most common type of restorative procedure used for cavities is dental fillings. Remember that the tooth enamel (the outermost layer of each tooth) cannot grow back once it has decayed or been damaged.

Cost-effective and affordable

Dental sealants are affordable and most often covered by dental insurance. Compared to the cost of restorative procedures (such as dental fillings, root canal therapy, and dental crowns), dental sealants are far more affordable. So, while there may be an initial cost for parents without insurance, it can save parents money in the long term by preventing restorative care for their children as they grow older.

Noninvasive

Dental sealants can help prevent children from needing invasive procedures in the future, particularly for the molars and premolars. When a child has a cavity, they will likely need a root canal and associated restoration, or they will need to undergo a dental filling. Not only are root canal therapy and dental filling procedures more costly than dental sealants, but they also are more invasive. Dental sealants can help prevent dental anxiety in children that could continue into their teenage and adult years, thereby creating more positive memories of visiting the dentist.

Offers cosmetic benefits

Sealants are essentially invisible to others. The dentist will only apply dental sealants to teeth farther back in the mouth. This means they do not negatively affect the appearance of a child’s smile, unlike if they had amalgam (silver) fillings or caps (crowns). On the other hand, if a child develops a cavity, teeth may appear discolored and even misshapen.