Sealants

Young children can find maintaining good hygiene more challenging than adults do. Children haven’t had as many years practicing to make it second nature, which means they’re more likely to develop excessive plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth. Dental sealants offer additional protection for children from the dangers of plaque and tartar. The thin, biocompatible acrylic is painted onto the chewing surfaces of one or more teeth, creating an impenetrable barrier between harmful plaque and the tooth’s surface. Sealants also help prevent food particles from becoming stuck in surface crevices, further reducing the risks of tooth decay.

Even when children are quick to pick up the brushing and flossing routine, the crevices on the chewing surfaces of their teeth can still provide excellent hiding spots for plaque and food to gather. The bristles of your child’s brush may not reach far enough to completely clean the chewing surface, and as plaque accumulates, it will attack the tooth structure until a cavity develops. Dental sealants offer a vital layer of additional protection by blocking plaque and food debris from falling between hard-to-reach crevices, and therefore increase your child’s chances of avoiding tooth decay and cavities.

However, sealants are only effective when combined with an effective routine of good hygiene and regular preventative appointments. Be sure to bring your child to the dentist’s office at least once every six months for checkups and cleanings, especially after dental sealants have been placed.

What is the cost of a dental sealant?

The average cost of dental sealants is $100 per tooth. But with a general dentist or a pediatric dentist in Doctors Network, the cost is only $25 per tooth.