Dental sealants

by Wisteria Family Dentistry. 2024/09/30.

Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of children's back teeth (molars) to prevent cavities. These teeth have grooves and pits that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush. Sealants form a barrier that keeps food and bacteria out, significantly reducing the risk of decay. The application process is simple and painless, involving the cleaning of the tooth, applying a special gel, rinsing, drying, and finally painting the sealant onto the tooth. The sealant then hardens, often with the help of a special light.

Sealants are particularly effective for children and teens since the likelihood of developing cavities in the pits and grooves of molars starts early in life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that sealants can protect against 80% of cavities for the first two years after application and continue to protect against 50% of cavities for up to four years. While sealants are durable, they should be checked regularly during dental visits and can be reapplied as necessary. They are an excellent preventive measure, complementing good oral hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.