Parents wish their child to have a healthy smile for a lifetime. This can be achieved with preventive dental care that should start at a young age. Among professional treatments, dental sealants are one of the most effective options in pediatric dentistry that can protect against cavities. But many parents wonder, “Are dental sealants safe for my kid?” Let’s explore how they work and whether they are a good option for your child’s oral health.
Dental sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of your child’s premolars and molars. Think of it as a protective shield for your child’s teeth. Most pediatric dentists recommend sealants once the permanent molars have fully erupted. For most children, this usually happens around the ages of 6 to 8.
Sealants are made to last, with some dental sealants lasting as long as nine years (with routine care). However, dental sealants will eventually need to be reapplied as your child’s baby teeth fall out and are replaced by their permanent teeth.
Yes, dental sealants are considered safe. They are made from FDA-approved materials that don’t carry any health risk.
Although sealants are applied at an early age, they can also be used later, after your child’s permanent premolars and molars have erupted (other than third molars). Not only do they help prevent cavities but also lessen the chance of more costly dental work down the road.
There’s no need to get worried. Here are some common myths about sealants and the truth behind them:
Some parents feel concerned about the use of a material called bisphenol-A (BPA) in dental sealants and how it might be risky. However, the BPA levels in sealants are so low that they are unlikely to cause your child any harm.
The American Dental Association (ADA) and other health organizations consider dental sealants a safe and effective preventive treatment.
Allergic reactions to resin-based sealants are very rare, and most children do not experience any side effects.
Another assumption is that sealants may contain toxic materials. The reality is that dental sealants are safe for your oral health, as they consist of FDA-approved, biocompatible materials. That’s why they have been used for decades to protect teeth against cavities.
Dental sealants are a completely safe preventive treatment for kids, which can help protect their smiles against cavities early on. If you have any more concerns or want to know what’s best for your child’s oral health, talk to our dentist at Aquario Dental and Braces today. Schedule an appointment at our Wayside Drive or West Little York office.
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