Sealants

A dental sealant is a thin plastic coating painted on the chewing surfaces of molars, premolars, and any deep grooves (known as pits and fissures) on the teeth. Over 75% of dental decay originates in these deep grooves, which are difficult to clean and highly prone to decay. By sealing these grooves, a sealant provides a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that protects the teeth.

Sealants effectively prevent decay for many years, but they must be inspected for wear and chipping during regular dental check-ups.

Reasons for Sealants:

• Children and Teenagers: As soon as the six-year molars (the first permanent back teeth) emerge or during the cavity-prone years from age 6 to 16.
• Adults: On tooth surfaces without decay that possess deep grooves or depressions.
• Baby Teeth: This is sometimes applied if the teeth have deep grooves or depressions and the child is prone to cavities.

Application of Sealants: Sealants are easily applied by a dentist or dental hygienist. The procedure takes only a few minutes per tooth. First, the teeth designated for sealing are thoroughly cleaned and isolated with cotton to keep the area dry. A special solution is applied to the enamel to enhance the sealant’s bonding to the teeth. After rinsing and drying the teeth, the sealant material is painted onto the enamel surface to fill the deep grooves or depressions. The type of sealant used dictates whether it will harden on its own or require a special curing light.