Dental Sealants

What are sealants?
Dental sealants are temporary plastic coatings that are placed on the chewing surface of the permanent back teeth to help protect them from decay. Most tooth decay in children and teens occurs on these surfaces. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces from tooth decay by keeping germs and food particles out of these grooves.
Why are dental sealants placed on teeth?
The chewing surfaces of the molar and premolar teeth have deep grooves that make them vulnerable to decay. They are difficult to clean. Dental sealants provide extra protection for the pits and grooves by covering over the deep grooves with an acrylic (plastic) material.
When are dental sealants placed?
It is recommended to seal permanent molars with deep once the chewing surface of the tooth has erupted completely beyond the gum. Applying sealants does not require drilling or removing tooth structure. After the tooth is cleaned, a special gel is placed on the chewing surface for a few seconds. The tooth is then washed off and dried. Then, the sealant is painted on the tooth. The dentist or dental hygienist also may shine a light on the tooth to help harden the sealant. It takes about a minute for the sealant to form a protective shield.
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