Do I still need to use fluoride if I have dental sealants?
Yes. Dental sealants only protect the surface area that they are placed on. Fluoride helps protect all the surfaces of the tooth from decay and cavities.
Cost Range of Dental Sealants
What do dental sealants cost? Dental sealants cost can range from about $30 to $40 per tooth but can climb slightly in metropolitan areas. Check to see if your insurance covers sealant treatments. If you're on a budget or uninsured, you may want to check if your child's school (or one in the surrounding area) offers sealants and preventative programs as an extension of their enrollment as a student.
Sealant, Filling, or Crown?
To maintain optimal oral health, good oral care means being preventative and proactive. Keep in mind that crowns and fillings result from some level of tooth decay and damage that has already occurred. And though there are many factors in the cost of a filling or crown – such as how many are needed and how much insurance you have – fillings can each cost about $110 to $240 on average and crowns can range between $1,000 to $3,500.
Opting for dental sealant at your dental professional's suggestion may make the most sense not only for your teeth but also for your budget. Ultimately, maintaining excellent oral care between checkups by brushing twice a day will help prevent cavities and support the sealant treatment after the fact. To ensure you're taking the best care of your smile, always check with your dental professional about options for your teeth and the best aftercare for your sealant treatment.