Dental Sealants
What are dental
sealants?
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings which are applied to the chewing
surfaces of the molars (back teeth). Most tooth decay in children and
teens occurs in these surfaces. Sealants cover the chewing surfaces to
prevent decay.
Which teeth are
suitable for sealants?
Permanent molars are the most likely to benefit from sealant application.
First molars usually come into the mouth when a child is about 6 years of
age. Second molars appear at about age 12. It is best if the sealant is
applied soon after the molars have erupted, before the teeth have a chance
to decay. For that reason, children between the ages of 5 and 15 benefit
most from sealants.
How are sealants
applied?
Applying sealants does not require drilling or removing tooth structure.
It is an easy three-step process: A dentist or dental hygienist cleans the
tooth with a special toothpaste. A special cleansing liquid, on a tiny
piece of cotton, is rubbed gently on the tooth and is washed off. Finally,
the sealant is painted on the tooth. It takes about a minute for the
sealant to form a protective shield.
Are sealants
visible?
Upon close examination sealants can be seen. Sealants can be clear, white,
or slightly tinted. Because they are used only on the back teeth, sealants
cannot be seen when a child talks or smiles.
Will sealants make
teeth feel different?
Like anything new that is placed in the mouth, a child may feel the
sealant with the tongue. Sealants, however, are very thin and only fill
the pits and grooves on molar teeth.
How long will
sealants last?
One sealant application can last for as long as 5 to 10 years. Sealants
should be checked regularly, and reapplied if they are no longer in place.
Will sealants
replace fluoride?
No... fluorides, such as those used in community water, toothpaste, and
mouthrinse also help to prevent decay. Fluoride works best on the smooth
surfaces of teeth. The chewing surfaces on the back teeth, however, have
tiny grooves where decay often begins. Sealants keep germs out of the
grooves by covering them with a safe plastic coating. Sealants and
fluorides work together to prevent tooth decay.
How do sealants fit
into a preventive dentistry program?
Sealants should be used as part of a child's total preventive dental
care. A complete preventive dental program includes use of sealants,
fluoride, plaque removal, careful food choices, and regular dental care.
Why is sealing a
tooth better than waiting for decay and filling the cavity?
Sealants help 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. Fillings last an average of
6 to 8 years before they need to be replaced. Appropriate use of sealants
can save time, money, and the discomfort associated with dental treatment
procedures.
Page last reviewed: December 12, 2007
Page last modified: October 4, 2004
Content source:
Division of Oral Health,
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and
Health Promotion |
