July 20, 2015 Even when kids brush and floss carefully, they are susceptible to decay in their hard-to-reach molars. Dental sealants have long been proven a safe, cost-effective dental procedure to avert tooth decay for an average of five to seven years. Dental sealants are a thin plastic film that forms an impenetrable barrier on the surface of the teeth and provide an extra layer of protection. Application of dental sealants is quick and comfortable, taking place in just one visit with your child able to eat right after the appointment. According to the CDC, nearly 50 percent of children ages 9 to 11 and 31 percent of children ages 6 to 8 have had at least one dental sealant. While not all children may need dental sealants, this underutilized method for preventing cavities can be 100 percent effective. Applying dental sealants is less costly than filling cavities later. Teeth are at the greatest risk of decay when they first erupt. Since food particles and bacteria are not as easily removed from the pits and grooves in these new teeth, it is the prime time to apply sealants, before decay can begin. The teeth most at risk for decay, and most in need of dental sealants, are the 6-year and 12-year molars. Find out if dental sealants are right for your child. In a routine examination, we can determine if your child would be a good candidate for dental sealants. The application of dental sealants is quick and comfortable, taking place in just one visit with your child able to eat right after the appointment. If you are seeking a Sparks dental sealants expert, give us a call today at (775) 358-1555 to schedule an appointment for your child.