Sealants

Proactive protection for your child’s teeth.

Sealants protect the grooved and pitted surfaces of the teeth, especially the chewing surfaces of back teeth where most cavities in children are found. Made of clear or shaded plastic, sealants are applied to the teeth to help keep them cavity-free.

Even if your child brushes and flosses carefully, it is difficult (sometimes impossible) to clean the tiny grooves and pits on certain teeth. Food and bacteria build up in these crevices, placing your child in danger of tooth decay. Sealants “seal out” food and plaque, reducing the risk of decay.

The application of a sealant is quick and comfortable and usually only takes only one visit. The tooth is first cleaned, then conditioned and dried. The sealant is flowed onto the grooves of the tooth and hardened with a special light. Your child will be able to eat right after the appointment.

The natural flow of saliva usually keeps the smooth surfaces of teeth clean but does not wash out the grooves and fissures. The teeth most at risk of decay, and therefore most in need of sealants, are the six-year and twelve-year molars. Many times the permanent premolars and primary molars will also benefit from sealant coverage. Any tooth, however, with grooves or pits may benefit from the protection of sealants. As each child’s situation is unique, we will advise you when and if sealants will benefit your child.