Dental Sealants

Dental sealants act as a barrier to prevent cavities. They are a plastic resin material usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars) where decay occurs most often.

Brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth. But toothbrush bristles cannot reach all the way into the depressions and grooves to extract food and plaque. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas by "sealing out" plaque and food and makes brushing your teeth easier and more effective.The sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and may last several years before a reapplication is needed. During your regular dental visits, your dentist will check the condition of the sealants and re-apply them when necessary. The likelihood of developing pit and fissure decay begins early in life, so children and teenagers are obvious candidates. But adults can benefit from sealants as well.

Sealants last from three to five years. Dental sealants provide protection only when they are fully intact. So, if your sealants come off let your dentist know about it and schedule an appointment for your teeth to be resealed.