DENTAL SEALANTS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
WHAT ARE DENTAL SEALANTS?
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that a dental provider paints onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant is a liquid that quickly hardens to form a protective shield over the tooth. Applying the sealant is simple, painless and only takes a few minutes.
HOW CAN I GET DENTAL SEALANTS FOR MY CHILD?
Dental sealants are applied in dental offices, clinics, and sometimes even in schools. In Maryland, dentists and dental hygienists can apply sealants in school settings. Check with your child’s school to find out if they have a dental sealant program.
WHEN SHOULD MY CHILD GET SEALANTS?
First between ages 5 and 7, when their first permanent molars come in. The second sealant application should occur between ages 11 and 14, when their second permanent molars come in.
DOES INSURANCE PAY FOR SEALANTS?
Yes! Most dental insurance programs pay for sealants, including the Medicaid dental insurance for children, also known as Maryland Healthy Smiles. Many parents do not know that Medicaid offers dental insurance for children. If you do not have dental insurance for your child it might be worthwhile to check with Medicaid to see if your child can receive dental insurance.
HOW ARE SEALANTS PUT ON?
Sealants are painted on the tops of back teeth as a liquid and quickly harden to protect the teeth. Getting sealants is simple and painless. They are put on by a dentist or dental hygienist in a dental office, clinic and sometimes in schools. In Maryland, dentists and dental hygienists can provide sealants in schools with parental consent.
WHY GET SEALANTS?
The back teeth, or molars, are the teeth most likely to get cavities. Food gets trapped in the grooves on the chewing surface of the teeth. Sometimes it is hard for children to brush their back teeth and reach tiny particles of food that are trapped. That’s why dental sealants are important. They prevent these food particles from getting trapped in the first place.
HOW LONG DO SEALANTS LAST?
Sealants protect teeth if they stay in place. They hold up well against everyday chewing, flossing, and brushing. Get them checked by a Dentist or dental hygienist at least once a year.
