Dental Sealants
by Ronald E. Tornwall, DDS
August, 2004
 

Though I've primarily addressed the dental needs of adult patients in the past, something should be said about dental sealants which play an important part of preventive care for children and teenagers.
 

A dental sealant is a plastic material used to protect the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Dental sealants
are applied to decay-prone surfaces of the teeth, usually the back molars and pre-molars. Sealants come in the form of a liquid which quickly hardens to form a shield over these chewing surfaces.

Why Get Sealants?

Sealants keep out the germs and food that cause tooth decay. The chewing surfaces of the back teeth are rough and
uneven and generally have small pits and grooves. Food and germs can get stuck in these uneven areas and stay there a long time because toothbrush bristles cannot brush them away. Germs in the mouth change the sugar in food to acid which can start a cavity in the tooth. Sealants prevent decay from ever starting.

Who Should Get Sealants?

Children should get sealants on their permanent molars as soon as the teeth come in, before decay has a chance to attack the teeth. Sealants also have an important role to play in adult dental care since adults can still get decay. Patients afflicted with dry mouth, which affects about one-third of the adult population, can benefit greatly. Sealants also protect worn and sensitive surfaces on adult teeth.

How Are Sealants Put On?

First/the tooth is cleaned and dried thoroughly and prepared so the surface is a little rough and therefore easier for the sealant to bond to. The tooth is rinsed and dried once more and the sealant is then applied in liquid form and hardens in just a few seconds.

Besides Sealants, Are There Other Ways To Prevent Tooth Decay?

Yes! The best way you can help prevent tooth decay is to brush with fluoride toothpaste, drink fluoridated water, and floss regularly. Sealants and fluoride used together provide the best defense against tooth decay.