Sealants for Kids: The 5 Most Commonly Asked Questions

Posted on November 15, 2016 in Kid's Health

Since their introduction during the 1960's, sealants have changed the way we protect our children's oral health. With cavities being the most common chronic disease among children, sealants can reduce childhood tooth decay by more than 70%.

To help you better understand the benefits of this sealants, we've compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions:

1. What are sealants?
   A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating painted on the tooth's chewing surface, preventing food and bacteria from getting stuck in the grooves and pits. Think of sealants as an extra layer of protection for your tooth!

2.  Who should get sealants?
   Anyone with healthy teeth can get sealants. But children should receive them as soon as they get their permanent molars and premolars.
    
3. Why should my child have sealants?
   Children are developing dental health habits and may not be properly removing food and plaque from every nook and cranny. Sealants will provide extra protection during these cavity-prone years.
    
4. How much do sealants cost?
   Without coverage, sealants can range to from $30 to $40 a tooth. Much cheaper than the $100-200 cavity they help prevent, but luckily, most insurance plans cover sealants for children.
    
5. Where can I go to get my child sealants?
   Most dental offices offer sealants. But sometimes children can receive sealants through a school-based sealant program.

Sealants help keep your child's smile healthy, which may mean fewer cavities in the future and less time away from school or friends! For more tips on children's oral health, visit our blog.