Dental Sealants for Cavity Prevention
A sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of molars, premolars and any deep grooves (called pits and fissures) of teeth. More than 75% of dental decay begins in these deep grooves. Teeth with these conditions are hard to clean and are very susceptible to decay. A sealant protects the tooth by sealing deep grooves, creating a smooth, easy to clean surface.
Sealants can protect teeth from decay for many years, but need to be checked for wear and chipping at regular dental visits.
Reasons for Sealants:
- Children and teenagers – As soon as the six-year molars (the first permanent back teeth) appear or any time throughout the cavity prone years of 6-16.
- Adults – Tooth surfaces without decay that have deep grooves or depressions.
- Baby teeth – Occasionally done if teeth have deep grooves or depressions and child is cavity prone.
What Do Sealants Involve?
Sealants are easily applied by your dentist or dental hygienist and the process takes only a couple of minutes per tooth.
The teeth to be sealed are thoroughly cleaned and then surrounded with cotton to keep the area dry. A special solution is applied to the enamel surface to help the sealant bond to the teeth. The teeth are then rinsed and dried. Sealant material is carefully painted onto the enamel surface to cover the deep grooves or depressions. Depending on the type of sealant used, the material will either harden automatically or with a special curing light.
Proper home care, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new sealants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.
What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are a thin, protective plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to seal deep grooves — areas where more than 75 % of decay begins because they’re hard to clean.
Q.
How do sealants help prevent cavities?
Sealants create a smooth, easy-to-clean surface over deep pits and fissures, blocking out food particles and bacteria that cause decay.
Q.
Who can benefit from dental sealants?
Sealants are recommended for:
- Children and teens as soon as permanent molars erupt
- Adults with deep grooves and no decay
- Occasionally on baby teeth if decay risk is high
Q.
How long does the sealant application take?
Sealant application is quick and painless — usually just a few minutes per tooth during a regular dental visit.
Q.
How long do sealants last?
Sealants can protect teeth for many years, but they should be checked at routine dental visits for wear or chipping so they can be maintained or replaced as needed.
Q.
Is the sealant application safe and painless?
Yes — the process is non-invasive, doesn’t require drilling or anesthesia, and is considered safe and effective at preventing cavities.