Dental Sealants

Dental tooth decay is more prevalent on the biting surfaces of the posterior teeth. While the proper oral hygiene is essential to prevent decay at times the anatomy of the tooth is such that it is impossible to clean properly. Dental caries is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that occurs on all teeth. When food is eaten these bacteria eat the food and produce acid which destroys the tooth. While good oral hygiene does not let food remain in the mouth, at times it is impossible to clean the pits, fissures, and grooves of the teeth. These areas can be protected by the application of dental sealants.

A decayed tooth which did not have the benefit of preventive sealants:

Isolated tooth with deep grooves with potential for decay:

Tooth with white tinted sealant material protecting tooth from decay:

What are Sealants?
A sealant is a clear or tooth colored coating of those areas that cannot be cleansed by a toothbrush. Sealants can be clear or appropriately tinted to assist identification after being applied to the pits and grooves. They are applied to the biting surface back teeth, molars and premolars, which are most decay prone. These coatings prevent food and bacteria from lodging in the deep groves of the posterior teeth, preventing decay.

Tooth with Tooth after sealant Light to Deep Application harden Grooves sealant

Fluoride is not effective in these areas.
Fluoride prevents decay on smooth surfaces of teeth. It does not prevent the decay in the deep fissures of permanent teeth.

Who should have sealants applied?
Sealants should be applied to all teeth of children with deep grooves. They are specifically effective in first permanent molars. Although children can benefit most, adults can also be candidates for this procedure.

What is the Process?
Each tooth only takes a short time to seal. 1.The teeth to be sealed are cleaned. 2.Microscopic roughening of the tooth surface with a weak solution to assist the sealant's adhereance. 3.Brushing the sealant material on the tooth. 4.Setting of the material with a light.

How Long Do Sealants Last? Sealants last for several years. Dentists monitor the status of the sealants, and will inform patients if they should be reapplied. Sealants' life span depends upon eating habits. Chewing ice, hard candies, and popcorn kernels can wear and dislodge the bond.

Are sealants cost effective?
A sound tooth is always better than a restored tooth. There are savings in tooth structure and the discomfort of the restoration of these teeth. Studies also show that incipient decay can be halted if a sealant is applied over a "starting" cavity.

The American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recognize that when applied properly, sealants play an important role in the prevention of tooth decay.

Center for Pediatric Dental Care * 1560 Beacon Street * Brookline, MA 02446 * 617-731-KIDS (5437)