Dental sealants are a form of general dentistry in Red Deer that works well to prevent the formation of cavities in adults and children for many years, but a lot of individuals wonder if they are worth the cost and potential risk.
We all know that brushing your teeth is important, but dental sealants may actually be the best way to prevent children from developing cavities. In this blog post, our team at Riverside Dental Centre tells you all you need to know about dental sealants so that you can make an informed decision about this treatment.
What Does the Research Say?
According to the CDC, dental sealants can prevent up to 80 percent of cavities for two years following application. After four years, sealants still offer over 50 percent protection.
It has also been proven that children suffering from tooth decay end up losing time in school, as the pain from tooth decay can interfere with eating, sleeping, and other important activities.
Dental sealants are considered to be the most conservative and non-invasive treatment in general dentistry near you. Once placed, dental sealants need to be maintained and monitored during regular dental checkups to ensure that they do not become worn.
What Are the Concerns About Dental Sealants?
Like all dental treatments, there are some disadvantages or potential risks with sealants. The most common is that they may fall out, chip, or wear away and need to be replaced by a dentist in Red Deer.
Some parents also have some concerns about exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) from the sealants. It is important to note that salivary BPA levels from exposure to BPA during the placement of dental sealants peak at three hours following the procedure and return to standard after 24 hours. While more research may be needed, BPA has not been detected in blood serum during clinical studies of dental sealants.
If you are concerned about the BPA from dental sealants more than the risks of cavities and tooth decay, it is important to understand treating tooth decay can require a dentist near you to use many dental materials that have more harmful chemicals than BPA.
What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Dental Sealants?
If an experienced dentist precisely places your dental sealants, then they can last a lifetime. However, most of the time, they will eventually require replacement. The procedure is painless, quick, and simple, and most children are able to tolerate the process quite easily.
Dental sealants work very well to protect the molars from plaque, tartar, food particles, and harmful bacteria that would otherwise lead to tooth decay. Both children and adults can benefit from sealants, and they blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile so that no one will notice them in your mouth.
Interested in Dental Sealants?
If you are an adult who is especially prone to cavities, or if you have a young child, then dental sealants are an excellent choice for you. This quick and painless procedure will do wonders for maintaining your oral health for years to come. Our dedicated team of dental professionals at Riverside Dental Centre is happy to provide you with dental sealants. Please do not hesitate to contact us to book a consultation today!