Sealants

Dental sealants consist of “painting” a flowable resin material onto the pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of the molar and premolar teeth. It prevents cavities from forming by creating a physical barrier that keeps the bacteria, plaque, and food from getting trapped in these grooves. It seals off the areas that toothbrush bristles are too large to get into and that flossing cannot reach. Additionally, sealants contain fluoride that is absorbed into the tooth creating a denser, less permeable structure that is more likely to withstand the plaque and acid of the mouth. Sealants do not require any tooth reduction and are applied directly to the tooth surface after thorough cleaning and drying of the tooth. The resin is made hard (cured) by a light, making them quick and simple to apply. Although we usually apply sealants as the permanent molars erupt at age 6 and then again at age 12, this treatment can be beneficial for children and adults alike. The sealants normally stay in place for a few years before having to be replaced.