Comparing dental sealants: plastic composite vs. glass ionomer

Heather and I've been asked a few times where this all began. What were those first baby steps that put us on this EnviroMom path? Thanks to momnesia (and when put on the spot), we usually can't think of a thing! How lame is that? But it might have been reuseable bags. So if you're just getting started there, we're happy for you! But be warned that several years down the line, you too may be questioning every little blasted thing! Like me!

Recently my kids had dental checkups. They went great. No cavities. My youngest was due for her first set of x-rays, but her mouth was too tiny to properly do the job (those bite-wings are awfully big). Thankfully we have one of those gentle dental practices that would rather wait six months on a mouth that shows no evidence of tooth decay than force them to throw up and keep the x-rays on a schedule. Whew! Bullet dodged there!

The challenges? Our oldest needs braces. Poor child has a mouth like a shark. This picture doesn't do it justice. But I only get so far taking pictures of my kids: 'Honey, smile really big and show me all those crooked crazy teeth!!' She's like: 'What the heck? Why do you need a picture of my mouth, anyway? Do all moms do this?' Anywhoo... The dentist and I talked a lot about the positives of starting sooner rather than later with braces, and I reluctantly picked up the phone today to schedule the free consultation with the orthodontist. Now we will have to start saving our pennies! Or better yet, the nickels we earn every time we use a reuseable bag at the grocery store! And then some. Orthodonture was expensive when I was a teen. We should probably set up something like an additional college savings plan to sock it away for the braces. Let's keep our fingers crossed both kids won't need braces. 

The other thing that our dentist suggested was putting sealants on the kids' back molars, and that I should do a little research on the types before we proceed with the work. The options I was offered are: plastic composite or glass ionomer.

Bells and sirens went off in my head the minute the dentist mentioned plastic composite sealers. BPA! No way! Green Phone Booth did a thorough post on this type of sealant, and has some great discussion points. I couldn't find as much on the glass ionomer. The dentist said it wouldn't last as long, but that glass is about as inert a substance as possible, so just might be the best way to go if I was concerned that way. And I am!!

Have you had dental sealants in your own mouth, or your kids'? I would imagine that some people don't feel they are even necessary. Seems like with dental stuff (Fluoride. There. I've said it. Need I say more?) the opinions vary wildly and most are passionate on the subject. So feel free to share any wisdom you have, and please keep it friendly. Thanks!