Are dental sealants necessary for children?
Dental sealants are highly recommended because they can protect a tooth from getting a cavity. Once a child’s permanent tooth has fully erupted, then a dental sealant should be placed on that tooth. A dental sealant is a thin plastic film painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent cavities. Placing a dental sealant is painless. It lasts anywhere from 5 to 10 years, and it is important to consider that the cost of a dental sealant is less than getting a tooth filled that has a cavity. Additionally, teeth with cavities, even when fixed by a dentist are more likely to need additional dental work down the road.
