Dental Sealants
What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the grooves on
the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from tooth decay. Most
tooth decay in children and teens occurs on these surfaces. Sealants protect the
chewing surfaces from tooth decay by keeping germs and food particles out of
these grooves.
Which teeth are suitable for sealants?
Permanent molars are the most likely to benefit from sealants. The first
molars usually come into the mouth when a child is about 6 years old. Second
molars appear at about age 12. It is best if the sealant is applied soon after
the teeth have erupted, before they have a chance to decay.
How are sealants applied?
Applying sealants does not require drilling or removing tooth structure. The
process is short and easy. After the tooth is cleaned, a special gel is placed
on the chewing surface for a few seconds. The tooth is then washed off and
dried. Then, the sealant is painted on the tooth. The dentist or dental
hygienist also may shine a light on the tooth to help harden the sealant. It
takes about a minute for the sealant to form a protective shield.
Are sealants visible?
Sealants can only be seen up close. Sealants can be clear, white, or slightly
tinted, and usually are not seen when a child talks or smiles.
Will sealants make teeth feel different?
As with 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 of molar teeth.
How long will sealants last?
A sealant can last for as long as 5 to 10 years. Sealants should be checked
at your regular dental appointment and reapplied if they are no longer in place.
Will sealants replace fluoride for cavity protection?
No. Fluorides, such as those used in toothpaste, mouth rinse, and community
water supplies also help to prevent decay, but in a different way. Sealants keep
germs and food particles 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 are one part of a child's total preventive dental care. A complete
preventive dental program also includes fluoride, twice-daily brushing (see the
Brush Up on Healthy Teeth tip sheet), wise food
choices, and regular dental care.
Why is sealing a tooth better than waiting for decay and filling the cavity?
Decay damages teeth permanently. Sealants protect them. Sealants can save
time, money, and the discomfort sometimes associated with dental fillings.
Fillings are not permanent. Each time a tooth is filled, more drilling is done
and the tooth becomes a little weaker.
Related Link
Page last reviewed: September 10, 2008
Page last modified: September 10, 2008
Content source:
Division of Oral Health,
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and
Health Promotion |