What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are clear or tooth colored resins that are applied on teeth to seal the grooves, pits and fissures. Sealants help preventing tooth decay in these areas where most cavities in children are found. They are applied mostly on the permanent molars. Sealants are only a part of the dental plan to prevent cavities. Brushing, flossing, balanced diet, limited snacking, and regular dental visits are still important to maintain your child healthy smile.
Dental sealants protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth where cavities occur most often for children. Sealants, composed of clear or shaded plastic, are painted onto the tiny grooves in the molars. By “sealing out” food and plaque, sealants reduce the risk of tooth decay. Sealants can be quickly and painlessly applied to any permanent teeth that are likely to develop decay on the biting surface.
Dental sealants protect the chewing surfaces of back teeth where most cavities in children are found. Made of clear or shaded plastic, sealants are painted onto the tiny grooves and depressions in the molars. By “sealing out” food and plaque, sealants reduce the risk of decay. They are quickly and painlessly applied to any baby teeth and permanent teeth that, in the dentist’s opinion, are likely to have decay on the biting surface. Sealants must be checked periodically and replaced when necessary, though they generally last for several years.
