Delta Dental of Wisconsin - Behind Every Smile, We See a Story.

Lack of dental treatment is one of the nation’s greatest gaps in children’s health care. Painful, untreated tooth decay can pose a serious health risk, and it’s a leading cause of school absences. But simple treatments – like dental sealants on molars – go a long way to prevent cavities, keeping more kids in school and out of the emergency room. Since 2008, Delta Dental of Wisconsin has invested more than $3 million in the state’s Seal-A-Smile program. Our funding ensures that thousands of kids can receive sealants if needed. We recently increased our financial commitment, extending services to nearly every Wisconsin county and greatly expanding the program in Milwaukee. To reach more children in need, Seal-A-Smile focuses on schools where a large percentage of children receive free or reduced-cost meals. The program provides oral health education and screenings, fluoride varnish, and sealants when appropriate – all at no cost to caregivers. Partnership with the state helps prevent cavities for nearly 70,000 school children every year

What is a sealant?

Sealants are thin coatings painted on teeth to protect them from cavities. They flow into the deep grooves of teeth and harden immediately. The procedure is quick, easy, and painless. * Sealants prevent the most cavities when applied soon after permanent molars erupt. Sealants on newly-erupted back teeth can reduce cavities by as much as 70%.

*https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/dental-sealants/

of teeth treated with dental sealants remain cavity-free – compared to 30% of teeth without sealants. 80% Did you know?

The program has made a measurable difference in reducing children’s cavities across the state – and is considered a successful model for sealant programs around the country.