Dental sealants are a great option for preventing cavities in children. Kids don’t always take great care of their teeth, even with the right training and support. Having extra protection against tooth decay could preserve your child’s smile and keep your dental bills to a minimum. Read on to learn how long dental sealants last.
What Do Dental Sealants Do?
A dental sealant acts as a protective shield over a tooth. Sealants are usually applied to the back molars because these teeth are most susceptible to tooth decay. The dentist thoroughly cleans the tooth to prepare for the sealant. Then the actual sealant is painted onto the tooth and activated with a special light. The light hardens the sealant to create a firm, long-lasting barrier.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Dental sealants last for years under most circumstances. They are most effective in the first two years, shielding against 80% of cavities. For the next two years, they protect against 50% of cavities. Sealants have been shown to work up to nine years after placement, but that is not true for all cases.
It is possible for a dental sealant to come loose or pop off completely. At that point, the tooth is susceptible to decay because it is exposed to bacteria once again. During your child’s routine dentist appointments, we can check the sealants to confirm they are still working properly. If not, the sealant can be easily replaced.
Do Dental Sealants Prevent Cavities?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children without dental sealants are three times more likely to get a cavity than those with dental sealants. Sealants prevent 80% of molar cavities, and molars make up 90% of all cavities in children. So yes, dental sealants absolutely work. They are a quick, easy and affordable solution for tooth decay prevention, and they are far less expensive than dental fillings or crowns. Taking this preventative measure could protect your child’s smile for years to come.
If you are interested in dental sealants for your child, come to Clinton Dental Center for a consultation. We provide full-service family dentistry, including pediatric dental care, tooth decay prevention, teeth cleanings, oral exams, and much more. Give us a call at (586) 949-5363 to schedule your appointment,
