More than 75% of dental decay begins in the deep grooves of teeth called fissures and pits.

Dental sealants are a thin plastic material applied to chewing surfaces of pits and fissures, premolars, and molars of the teeth.

Because sealants creating a smooth surface they make it easier to clean teeth with such features as those mentioned above, thereby reducing the incidence of tooth decay (cavities).

And the name implies, sealants protect teeth by sealing such imperfections of the teeth.

While sealants do an excellent job protecting teeth from developing cavities, they do need to be checked for wear and chipping at regular dental visits.

Dental Sealants are great for:

• Baby teeth – Dental sealants are applied to teeth with deep grooves or depressions if your child is cavity prone.
• Kids and Teens from ages 6 to 16 – After the first molars erupt (these are the first permanent back teeth), sealants may be applied throughout these cavity-prone years.
• Adults – Dental Sealants are used as a preventive measure on surfaces without decay but with deep grooves or depressions.

More than 75% of dental decay begins in the deep grooves of teeth called fissures and pits.

Dental Sealants are a thin plastic material applied to chewing surfaces of pits and fissures, premolars, and molars of the teeth.

Because dental sealants creating a smooth surface they make it easier to clean teeth with such features as those mentioned above, thereby reducing the incidence of tooth decay (cavities).

And the name implies, dental sealants protect teeth by sealing such imperfections of the teeth.

While sealants do an excellent job protecting teeth from developing cavities, they do need to be checked for wear and chipping at regular dental visits.

Sealants are great for:

• Baby teeth – Sealants are applied to teeth with deep grooves or depressions if your child is cavity prone.
• Kids and Teens from ages 6 to 16 – After the first molars erupt (these are the first permanent back teeth), sealants may be applied throughout these cavity-prone years.
• Adults – Sealants are used as a preventive measure on surfaces without decay but with deep grooves or depressions.

What does the procedure entail?

Sealants are a non-invasive procedure requiring only a few minutes per tooth. Either your hygienist or dentist can apply sealants.

The first step is to clean the area where the sealant will be applied thoroughly. The area is then isolated using cotton to ensure the area remains dry during the procedure. A special solution is applied to the enamel surface to help ensure the sealant bonds to the teeth. Teeth are then thoroughly rinsed and dried. The sealant is then carefully applied onto the enamel surface to cover all grooves and depressions. Depending upon the type of sealant that is used, it will harden with a curing light or it will do so automatically.

Proper home care, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits will help add years to the life of your newly protected teeth, thanks to sealants!