4 Questions About Getting Dental Sealants

Has your child reached the age where they now have their adult molars, and you are wondering if they should get dental sealants? Here are a few questions you will likely have about this way to protect your child's teeth. 

What Are Dental Sealants Made Out Of? 

Many people have a misconception about what dental sealants are actually made out of. The procedure is not as if you were to fill the molars with the same resin material used for cavities. Instead, the teeth are covered with a plastic material that is safe to be used in your mouth due to being BPA-free. You don't have to worry about your child ingesting unsafe materials as the dental sealants eventually wear down over time.

Is The Tooth's Structure Altered For Dental Sealants?

Since placing dental sealants on the rear molars is not the same as the process of getting a cavity, be aware that it doesn't alter any of the tooth's structure. The dental sealants rest on top of the tooth's surface as an added layer of protection, and they will not damage the layer of enamel beneath the sealant. 

You may be familiar with some cosmetic dental procedures, such as veneers, that must be replaced if they are damaged. This is true of dental veneers because the installation requires removing a thin layer of enamel to attach the veneer to the tooth's surface. A dental sealant will wear away over time and doesn't need to be replaced at all because the surface of the tooth underneath is protected. 

Will It Hurt To Get Dental Sealant?

Many parents do not get their kids' dental sealants because of misconceptions about there being pain involved. Getting dental sealants is a completely pain-free procedure and doesn't even require that your child's mouth is numbed to get them. Not only is numbing not necessary, but your child will not feel pain at all. This can give you a sense of relief that the dental appointment to get sealants will go smoothly. 

Are Dental Sealants Expensive? 

The cost of dental sealants is very affordable and is even covered by many dental insurance plans. This is because dental sealants are a preventative procedure that is designed to protect the teeth and prevent future problems. If you do not have dental insurance, the price you pay for sealants can easily save you money by not having to pay for cavity fillings in your child's rear molars. 

Reach out to a dentist like John B Webster DDS for more information.

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