Dental sealants are a standard preventive measure dentists use to protect children’s teeth from cavities. These thin plastic coatings are applied to the back teeth, where most chewing occurs, and act as a barrier against bacteria and food particles. While dental sealants have been proven effective in preventing tooth decay, some parents may have concerns about their safety. Let’s take a closer look at O’Fallon dental sealants for children.
The Composition of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are plastic resins that harden into a protective layer over the teeth. They are a thin coating applied to the grooves and pits of the back teeth, where bacteria often collect and cause decay. The most common type of dental sealant is a safe and widely used material in dentistry. The same material is also used in fillings and other restorative procedures.
How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
The process of applying dental sealants is simple and painless. First, we thoroughly clean and dry the teeth to ensure proper sealant adhesion. Then, an acid solution is applied to the surface of the teeth to create a rough texture that allows the sealant to bond better. The sealant is then painted onto the tooth and hardened with a special curing light. The entire process takes only a few minutes per tooth and does not require any drilling or anesthesia.
Are Dental Sealants Safe?
The short answer is yes, dental sealants are safe for children. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), no evidence suggests that dental sealants pose any health risks. Dentists have successfully used them for over 50 years with no reported adverse side effects.
Allergic Reactions
One worry parents may have is the possibility of an allergic reaction to the materials used in dental sealants. While rare, allergic reactions can occur with any dental material. However, the likelihood of an allergic reaction to sealants is very low, and dentists typically screen for allergies before applying any dental products.
Quality of Materials
Some parents may also question the quality or safety of the materials used in dental sealants. It’s essential to note that all dental materials must undergo rigorous testing and approval by the FDA before they can be used on patients. This includes dental sealants, which must meet strict safety standards to be approved for use in children.
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
Despite any concerns about safety, it’s important to remember that dental sealants offer many benefits for children’s oral health. Some of these include:
- Preventing tooth decay: As mentioned earlier, dental sealants act as a barrier against bacteria and food particles, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
- Cost-effective: Dental sealants are an affordable way to prevent cavities and avoid more expensive treatments such as fillings or root canals.
- Pain-free: The application process for dental sealants is quick and painless, making it a comfortable experience for children.
- Long-lasting: With proper care, dental sealants can last for up to 10 years, providing long-term protection against tooth decay.
O’Fallon Dental Sealants for Children
Dental sealants at My Child’s Dentist are safe and effective in preventing tooth decay in children. While there may be some concerns about the materials used, it’s important to remember that they have been thoroughly tested and approved by the FDA. As with any dental procedure, discussing any concerns with Dr. Jim Burchett is essential to ensure you are making an informed decision for your child’s oral health. With proper care and regular check-ups, dental sealants can be valuable in keeping your child’s teeth healthy and cavity-free.
So if we recommend dental sealants, rest assured that they are a safe and beneficial treatment option. Please contact us to schedule an appointment today and give their teeth the extra protection they need with dental sealants! Our pediatric dental services also include sedation dentistry in O’Fallon, Missouri.