Dental Sealants (Check back often for new dental articles from Kids Dentist.)

You may have heard some of your friends talking about a product that prevents cavities on children's teeth. They are called sealants.

A Sealant is a protective plastic coating that covers the biting surfaces of the permanent back molars. Sealants help to "seal out" food and plaque that cause cavities.

Does My Child Need Sealants? Some factors to consider when deciding whether a child needs sealants are heredity, anatomy of the tooth, brushing habits and diet. We strongly recommend sealants as a preventative measure for ALL children with permanent molars.

Once A Child Has Sealants, Can They Still Get Cavities? Sealants are very effective when placed on the permanent molars to prevent cavities. They are NOT, however, a 100% guarantee that your child will never get a cavity. While sealants work on the biting surfaces of the back teeth, they do not work on the front teeth, the sides or in-between spaces where flossing and fluoride work to prevent cavities.

How Are Sealants Applied? Sealants are quick and painless to apply. They usually can be done in one or two visits. Your Pediatric Dentist or Hygienist will condition and dry the tooth, apply the sealant, and then allow it to harden.

Insurance Note: Some insurance plans will cover sealants at 100%, but in order to be sure, call your insurance company and ask if they cover Occlusal Sealants (ADA code #1351). Remember, it is not only your right but also your responsibility to know your insurance coverage details.