What are dental sealants?
In general, cavities occur most frequently on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Dental sealants are designed to provide protection for those areas of the teeth. A dental sealant is a plastic material that is placed directly into the grooves on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. The sealant then coats the teeth protecting the enamel from everyday plaque and acids that may harm them.
Dental sealants are a great way to protect your child’s permanent teeth from cavities. They are a clear and protective coating that is applied to the biting surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant protects the tooth from getting a cavity by shielding against bacteria and plaque. Sealants are most commonly placed on children’s permanent back teeth because they are more prone to cavities. Most insurance companies pay for sealants on children’s teeth. They can also be placed on adult’s teeth, however, insurance usually won’t cover them.