Pediatric Dentistry

SEALANT

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 73% 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 and the process takes only a couple of minutes per tooth. No anesthetic is necessary.

The teeth to be sealed are first cleaned. A 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 placed onto the enamel surface to cover the deep grooves or depressions. The material will harden with the use of a special curing light.

Proper home care, a balanced diet, no soda pop, plenty of water and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new sealants.

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