What are Dental Sealants? Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings which are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay.  Most tooth decay in children and adolescents occurs on the chewing surfaces of these back teeth or molars.  This is because molars have irregular surfaces with pits and grooves which tend to trap food and bacterial debris.  Sealants flow into and coat these pits and grooves so that bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay.

Which Teeth are Suitable for Sealants? The teeth most likely to benefit from sealant application are the first and second molars and the first and second bicuspids just after they have erupted and before they have had a chance to decay.  First molars generally appear at about six years of age and second molars and bicuspids at about twelve years of age.  After an examination, our doctors will determine which teeth can be sealed.

How Are Sealants Applied? Applying sealants is quite simple and may be done by a dentist or a licensed dental auxiliary.  First, the teeth are cleaned.  Then the teeth to be sealed are dabbed with a cleansing solution which prepares the tooth surface so that the sealant will bond to it properly.  After the tooth is prepared, the sealant is painted onto the tooth.  It flows into the pits and grooves and hardens in about 60 seconds.  After sealing, bacteria cannot reach the pits and grooves and cause decay.  The application of sealants requires no drilling or removal of the tooth surface.

Are Sealants Visible? Yes.  Sealants can be clear, white or slightly tinted.  Remember, sealants are used only on the back teeth and cannot be seen when a child talks or smiles.  Parents can check children's teeth periodically to see if the sealants are still in place.

Have Sealants Been Thoroughly Tested? Yes, thousands of children across the United States and in other countries have had their teeth sealed in controlled clinical studies.  These studies have shown sealants to be effective, easy to apply, inexpensive and nontoxic. They have been used routinely in private practice since the mid-1970's. Sealants are approved and have been recommended by the American Dental Association, the National Institute of Dental Research and the American Public Health Association. A sealant application can last for many years.  Sealants should be checked regularly.  Because teeth are most susceptible to decay when they are young, preventing decay during the first five to fifteen years after a tooth erupts is critical.

Will Sealants Replace Fluoride? No.  Fluorides, such as those in fluoridated water, fluoride toothpaste, and fluoride mouthrinse help prevent decay on the smooth surfaces of teeth.  However, fluorides have less effect on the rough, pitted chewing surfaces of the back teeth where food particles and decay-producing bacteria are trapped.  Sealants, therefore, are a good complement to fluride in keeping the tooth healthy.

How Do Sealants Fit into a Preventive Dentistry Program? For maximum benefit, sealants should be used as part of a child's total preventive dental care.  A dentist should examine the child's teeth and gums regularly to check bite, tooth eruption, and the condition of both hard and soft tissues.  A complete preventive dentistry program also includes: brushing and flossing, use of fluorides, good nutrition, and regular dental check-ups.

Why is Sealing a Tooth Better Than Waiting for Decay and Filling a Cavity? Sealants help to maintain sound, intact teeth.  Decay destroys the structure of the tooth.  Each time a tooth is filled or a filling is replaced, additional tooth structure is lost.  Amalgam fillings last an average of six to eight years before they need to be replaced.  Appropriate use of sealants can save time, money and the discomfort associated with restorative dental procedures.