We are failing our children by fixing problems we could have easily prevented.
In my practice, I see a constant stream of young patients needing fillings and, in serious cases, root canals. The irony? A huge number of these could have been avoided with a simple, painless procedure we’ve had for decades: pit and fissure sealants.
The data is clear. Sealants can reduce the risk of cavities in molars by up to 80%. These are the teeth that do most of the chewing and are most prone to decay.
But here’s the reality I witness in India: Most parents have never heard of them. The focus is almost entirely on treatment, not prevention. We wait for the pain, the cavity, the problem.
Let’s talk numbers. A sealant costs a fraction of a multi-surface filling or a root canal. It’s a one-time, painless application that takes minutes and protects the tooth for years. It isn’t just about saving money; it’s about saving our children from avoidable pain and dental procedures.
The mindset of “if it doesn’t hurt, don’t fix it” is costing the next generation their oral health. As professionals and as parents, we need to shift our focus from reactive repairs to proactive protection.
Ask your dentist about sealants for your child’s permanent molars as soon as they erupt. It’s one of the best and most cost-effective healthcare investments you can make.
What’s your experience? Are we doing enough to promote preventive dentistry in India
