Sealants
A sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing
surface of molars, premolars and any deep grooves (called
pits and fissures) of teeth. More than 75% of dental decay
begins in these deep grooves. Teeth with these conditions
are hard to clean and are very susceptible to decay. A
sealant protects the tooth by sealing deep grooves, creating
a smooth, easy to clean surface.
Sealants can protect teeth from decay for many years, but
need to be checked for wear and chipping at regular dental
visits.
Reasons for sealants:
- Children and teenagers – As soon as the six-year molars (the
first permanent back teeth) appear or any time throughout
the cavity prone years of 6-16.
- Adults – Tooth surfaces without decay that have deep grooves
or depressions.
- Baby teeth – Occasionally done if teeth have deep grooves or
depressions and child is cavity prone.
What do sealants involve?
Sealants are easily applied by your dentist or dental
hygienist and the process takes only a couple of minutes per
tooth.
The teeth to be sealed are thoroughly cleaned and then
surrounded with cotton to keep the area dry. A special
solution is applied to the enamel surface to help the
sealant bond to the teeth. The teeth are then rinsed and
dried. Sealant material is carefully painted onto the enamel
surface to cover the deep grooves or depressions. Depending
on the type of sealant used, the material will either harden
automatically or with a special curing light.
Proper home care, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits
will aid in the life of your new sealants. |
