Dental sealants are a preventive measure applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. By shielding teeth from decay-causing bacteria, sealants can reduce the need for fillings, crowns, and root canals.
Using dental sealings can also help save you money by lowering dental bills over time, making them a smart investment for many guests. This article will explore the effectiveness of dental sealants and explain how they can be a boost for your wallet when used as a preventive measure.
Understanding Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. They act as a protective barrier against plaque buildup, bacteria, and food particles, which can lead to cavities over time.
Dental sealants are typically recommended for children and teens, although some adults with deep tooth grooves may also be strong candidates. According to the CDC, when dental sealants are applied at the sign of first and second molars in children, it can prevent cavities by as much as 80% for up to 2 years and 50% for up to 4 years.
The Cost of Dental Sealants vs. Treating Cavities
Dental sealants act as a preventive to stop cavities before they occur. Once a cavity has set in, it will typically involve a dental filling, which can become more expensive if the decay worsens.
Deep or multiple cavities may require crowns or root canals, which increases the cost significantly. In some cases, root canals can cost as much as thousands of dollars when used with an out-of-network provider.
Sealants, on the other hand, offer a cost-effective solution that acts as a preventive measure against cavities. While sealants do have a small initial cost, they will end up saving you money in the long haul by ensuring you don’t have to deal with the expense and inconvenience of cavities.
Furthermore, insurance typically covers the cost of sealants for children, which can further enhance your long-term savings.
Longevity and Maintenance of Sealants
Properly applied sealants are extremely durable and can last several years before a replacement is needed. Routine checkups and maintenance can allow dentists to monitor sealants and make minor repairs when necessary, increasing their lifespan.
Daily brushing, flossing, not smoking, and limiting the intake of sugary snacks can help sealants stay effective for a longer period, helping you save money by reducing how often you need a replacement.
Who Benefits Most from Sealants
Sealants can be highly beneficial, but they may not be right for everyone. Most often, sealants are applied to children and adolescents, who can gain significant protection during cavity-prone years.
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, children typically have their first molars come in at the age of 6, while the second molars come in at around age 12. This is an indication they are primed for a dental sealant application to prevent cavities.
In addition to children, sealants can also be effective for some adults. Adult guests with a high cavity risk or those with deep tooth grooves may also find sealants beneficial. However, it’s important to note that insurance may not cover sealants in all instances for adult patients.
Steps to Get Started with Sealants
When you feel like you or your child is ready to get started on implementing dental sealants, here are the steps you can take:
- Schedule a dental exam to assess tooth surfaces and discuss sealant candidacy.
- If recommended, sealants are often applied in a single, efficient appointment.
- Keeping up with regular cleanings and checkups ensures continued effectiveness.
The process of applying dental sealants is simple and painless. It involves a dentist cleaning and drying teeth, applying a mild acidic gel to the chewing surfaces, and then applying the sealant material to the grooves of the teeth.
Once that is completed, dentists will use a special curing light to harden the sealant and make any final adjustments if needed.
Dental Sealant Treatments at Your Local Ideal Dental
Dental sealants can be efficient and cost-effective for many guests, especially younger patients who have molars coming in. By implementing dental sealants, you help decrease the risk of cavities, which can lead to costly dental procedures in the long term, such as root canals and fillings.
If you believe you or your family member is a candidate for a dental sealant, contact your local Ideal Dental office today to schedule an appointment.