Children’s Dentist Discusses Sealants

Pediatric Dentist

Children’s dentist Dr. Steve Pike explains what sealants are, how long they usually last, and their various benefits.

Learn more at https://www.doctorpike.com/sealants/ or contact us with any questions about the video.

Give us a call today to schedule an appointment (503) 297-1711

 

Video Transcription

Hi, this is Dr. Steven Pike and today I would like to talk to you about sealants.

Sealants are a protective coating that we put on permanent molars. It goes deep in the depths of the grooves. The grooves of the back molar are very deep and very narrow making them almost impossible to clean.

Plaque and food get up there and then the bacteria comes in causing cavities. It is a very common place to get cavities. Almost 90% of cavities start in these tiny grooves and this is the best strategy that we know of to prevent cavities in the molars.

At What Age Are Sealants Usually Put On A Child’s Molars?

The first stage that we put sealants on your child’s mouth is when their six-year molars have fully erupted, when they are all the way through the gum. This usually happens somewhere between the ages of six and eight.

How Long Do Sealants Last?

People often ask how long sealants last? I would say on average they last about ten years.

What Other Benefits Do Sealants Provide?

We are now in an age of bioactive dental materials. These are material that give off medicine to the teeth that make them more resistant to decay.

The sealants that we use give off a tiny bit of calcium, phosphorus, and a little bit of fluoride. Even if they wear down a little bit over time they are still leaving the tooth in a more healthy place than it was before the sealant.

How Effective Are Sealants at Reducing Cavities In Children?

We see about a 70% reduction in cavities with kids who have had sealants placed. In my mind, that is a very significant number.

Should All Kids Get Sealants?

Not everybody has to have sealants, it is a preventive strategy. You don’t have to do it. It works well but some people are not able to tolerate it.

It requires meticulous cleaning of the back teeth and meticulously placing the sealant. Some kids are just not able to tolerate that and in those cases we are just better off not doing the sealants and just making sure they brush those areas at home.

If you have any other questions about sealants give us a call we would love to talk more about it (503) 297-1711