If you’re like most people, you likely make sure your child is brushing their teeth and maybe even flossing too. We think that is fantastic! However, we hope you won’t miss out on a simple opportunity to make your kid’s teeth a lot more resistant to cavities: dental sealants.

When these super-thin coatings are applied to your child’s teeth, they create a protective barrier that keeps out food debris and cavity-causing bacteria. The best times to apply sealants are when your child gets their first molars (about age 6) and their second molars (age 12 or so). 

They are most effective when they are part of a larger oral hygiene routine that includes daily brushing and flossing, using a fluoride toothpaste, and visiting our Plainfield, IN office every six months for exams and cleanings. If your child is due for their next exam, call us today at 317-682-0884. 

In the meantime, check out some of the benefits. Treatment with dental sealants is:

  • Quick and Easy – We typically clean the teeth, apply a gel to prepare them, then rinse the gel away and paint sealant onto the teeth. The final step is hardening it with a special light. The entire process takes no more than a few minutes. Even wriggly children don’t usually have a problem getting this treatment. 
  • Highly Effective – We apply dental sealants to back teeth. They are especially susceptible to cavities because it’s difficult to reach them with a brush and floss. According to the CDC, sealants protect against 80 percent of cavities for two years. Protection remains in place for 50 percent of cavities for up to four years. While fillings can repair dental structure damaged by decay, it’s best to avoid any modification to your natural tooth structure whenever possible. 
  • Inexpensive – Sealants aren’t expensive. Many dental insurance plans will pay for them for children under 18. If you don’t have insurance but are a member of our Smile Care Club, you may receive a discount. Ask our team for details. 
  • Long Lasting – Studies show that sealants can still provide protection against decay for up to nine years. While not common, it is possible for them to become dislodged. We’ll check during your child’s exams to see if they are still in place. It’s simple to replace sealants if necessary. 
  • Low Impact – Since they are so thin, your child likely won’t even realize sealants are there. They won’t have to avoid any foods or make any other lifestyle changes. They are also either clear or tooth-colored, so no one else will notice them either. 

While dental sealants are usually recommended for children, they work well for cavity-prone adults too. Ask us about them at your next visit! If you need to make an appointment at Dr. Rod Eccles, DDS, call 317-682-0884 today.