Dental Sealants (BPA Free) for Kids & Teens
Does my child need dental sealants?
Sometimes brushing is not enough, especially when it comes to those hard-to-reach spots in your child’s mouth. It is difficult for a toothbrush to get in between the small cracks and grooves on your child’s teeth. If left alone, those tiny areas can develop tooth decay. Sealants give your child’s teeth extra protection against decay and help prevent cavities. The sealants are quickly and painlessly applied by Dr. Krepkh, and they harden immediately. Sealants are recommended for children and adolescents.
How long do dental sealants last?
If your child follows a good brushing and flossing regimen, the sealants can last up to 10 years, according to the National Institutes of Health. Without proper care, sealants may have to be re-applied every three or so years. However, it is fairly common to see adults with sealants still intact from their childhood. A dental sealant only provides protection when it is fully intact, so if your child’s sealants come off, let Dr. Krepkh know, and schedule an appointment for your child’s teeth to be re-sealed.
What is BPA and is it unhealthy for my child?
BPA, or Bisphenol A, is a common chemical found in many plastic products and has been banned in baby bottles and children’s drinking cups since 2013. General studies have found evidence that indicates BPA is a hormone disruptor. While traditional plastic dental sealants contain extremely low levels of BPA, to be safe, BPA-free sealants have been manufactured to help better protect your child’s development. If you’re concerned about BPA in dental sealants, you’ll feel comfortable that Dr. Krepkh uses only BPA-free dental sealant material.
Do dental sealants require special care?
Sealants do suffer wear and tear, so they need to be checked regularly. Further, sealants are applied most often to molars in the back of your child’s mouth. These are the teeth most involved in chewing and can be worn away over time or due to excessive grinding. In these cases, the sealants sometimes have to be replaced.