the case of the missing sealant

[wondering]

Hi- We visited a new dentist today and he recommended having my child's teeth sealed due to the fact that his four molars have come in. "That's funny", I said, "I thought I did that last year with our previous dentist." (We had recently moved- hence the new dentist.) The new dentist said he did not see any evidence of sealant and carefully rechecked my child's teeth, then again asserted that if anything was, in fact, applied, there is nothing remaining. He told me that occasionally you can have one or part of the application come off but, really, it's not probable to have all four sealant applications completely vanish. He said that if the teeth were not allowed to dry before applying the sealant, it is plausible that this could happen. But alas, this new dentist appeared skeptical that this is what had happened and although he did not directly state it, he implied that this is a rather questionable occurrance.
1. Fact: I took my child to the old dentist last year to have this procedure done and my child remembers being there for this.
2. Fact: Today, I called insurance asking to have this procedure covered again and they noted last years sealant application by the old dentist (four molars). I allowed insurance to call that old dentist and confirm this application, which resulted in an affirmative response.
3. Fact: I have enjoyed my interactions with both dentists, old and new, and my feeling is that both -appear- to be kind and honest and they appear to conduct business in a satisfactory way- I don't get any negative vibes from either, although I'm feeling bothered by this situation.

My insurance company proceeded to tell me that I could get the new dentist to produce a written statement and then I could submit a 'claim' against the other dentist. But I don't think that's apporpriate or fair unless something is screamingly wrong, and if there is no doubt about deception. Besides, I can't imagine what would motivate a dentist to do the work- to be physically present- but not apply sealant. It seems that if anyone might have the motive to falsify it would be the new dentist. But I don't really believe that's the answer- and I really do like this new dentist and I am certain there must be some other explanation. Please could someone help me allay my concerns and explain how this could be possible.

Another thought- is it possible that the old dentist did do all the work but simply forgot the final step- the sealant??!!

I would very much like the truth told before our next appointment with the new dentist- coming up soon!

Thank you for reading this and considering this question!

 

[annie778]

sounds like he did not do it properly.

I had it done in 1996 on my wisdom teeth and although it's a bit stained in places, in others you can still see it. For years it was very apparent when you looked at the teeth. It should look like a thin film of white glue moulded with the shape of the tooth.

Ive asked whether I need it reapplied, but a dentist told me you should only need it once. I've certainly not had decay in those teeth.

 

[wondering]

Thank you for answering- it helps to know that even if the sealant is not completely intact, it should continue to help protect!

The old dentist was not in town and i finally spoke with his colleague, who told me that at the office they are using a clear sealant called Guardian Seal, made by Kerr, and that they occasionally have difficulty determining if a patient has had the sealant applied and thus need to check their records or ask the patient. (I had to really probe to get these details.)

I appreciate the input you provided, and I think you're right- If not for the clear sealant revelation, I would suspect a mistake in this case. thanks!!

all of you who participate in this site are very kind for helping to alleviate everyone's fears and concerns!