Questions and Answers About Dental Sealants

Does your child get cavities often? If so, their pediatric dentist in Seminole and St. Petersburg, FL, may recommend dental sealants. As a parent, you may not have heard of dental sealants before. Below, we’ve listed some frequently asked questions about dental sealants, so you can make an informed decision if you’re considering this for your child.

1. What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a protective coating the dentist can apply to your child’s molars. Dental sealants protect the tooth enamel from bacteria and food.

2. Who Benefits from Dental Sealants?

Kids can easily get cavities because they eat a lot of sugar and often don’t brush their teeth well. Children are the most common recipient of dental sealants because they help kids avoid cavities. Adults can help kids get cavities too.

3. Do Dental Sealants Work?

Dental sealants do work. In fact, dental sealants can prevent up to 80% of cavities for the first two years.

4. How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Dental sealants can last for years, but they will start to wear off after a while. Your child’s dentist may recommend that your child get dental sealants when they’re six years old, and again a few years later.

5. Are All Children Eligible for Dental Sealants?

Dentists often recommend sealants when the first molars come in at age 6, and again at age 12. Older children can get dental sealants as well.

Are you interested in dental sealants for your child? You can learn more about this helpful option during your child’s next pediatric dental exam in Seminole and St. Petersburg, FL.