Can You Get Cavities After Sealants Are Applied?

Dental sealants are a simple and affordable way to reduce your child’s risk of cavities. Sealants are made of a special dental material painted into the pits and crevices of the molars, the back teeth used for chewing and grinding food. This material hardens and acts as a barrier to food debris, bacteria, and damaging acids produced by bacteria.

How Effective Are Dental Sealants?

Molars with sealants are not immune from cavities. However, the teeth are much better protected than without sealants in their grooves. In fact, sealants can reduce your risk of molar decay by almost 80%. This preventive treatment is inexpensive and less invasive than a filling, root canal therapy, or a dental crown. Sealants do need to be reapplied eventually when they wear out, but they can last a decade or more.

Cavity Prevention Tips

Encourage your child to maintain good oral health habits to avoid cavities in their molars with sealants and in their teeth that can’t get sealants. All patients should brush their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes per session and floss at least once a day. Every six months, visit the dentist for a professional cleaning and exam. Diet matters too! Drinking plenty of water and eating a healthy, balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables will improve overall health andoral health. Chew only sugar-free gum, and consume sugary treats/drinks and starchy foods in moderation.

Dental Sealants in Lytle, TX

While anyone can get dental sealants, they are especially helpful for young patients. We recommend a child gets sealants as soon as their permanent molars erupt. In some cases, we also recommend sealants on temporary molars. If you have any questions about the benefits of dental sealants or if you want to learn about our other preventive dental services, please contact us today at Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics!

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Categorised in: Cavity Prevention