Sealants

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. Most tooth decay in children and adolescents occurs on the chewing surfaces of these back teeth, which have irregular pits and grooves that tend to trap food and bacteria debris. Sealants fill and cover these pits and grooves so that bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay.

Why is sealing a tooth better than filling a cavity?

Sealants help maintain sound, healthy teeth by preventing decay, which is a disease that destroys the structure of the tooth. Each time a tooth is filled or a filling is replaced, additional tooth structure is lost. A typical filling will only last an average of 8 to 10 years before it needs to be replaced. Appropriate use of sealants can save time, money and the discomfort associated with restorative dental procedures.

How are sealants applied?

Applying sealants is quite simple and is done by a dentist or a dental hygienist. First, the teeth are cleaned and the areas that are to be sealed are dabbed with a very mild acid solution similar in strength to vinegar or lemon juice. This roughens the tooth surface very slightly so that the sealant will bond to it properly. After the tooth is prepared, the sealant is painted onto the tooth.

The material flows into the pits and grooves and hardens in about 5 seconds with the application of a bright, blue light. After sealing, bacteria cannot reach the pits and grooves and therefore, cannot cause decay. Applying sealants requires no drilling or removal of the tooth surface. Tooth structure is left intact - healthy teeth are protected from decay-forming bacteria.

How long will dental sealants last?

A sealant can last 5 to 8 years, but will often last longer than this if done properly. Sealants should be checked regularly and reapplied when they appear to have worn off. Because teeth are most susceptible to decay when they are young, preventing decay during the first 5 to 14 years after a tooth erupts is critical.

How do sealants fit into a preventive dentistry program?

For maximum benefit, sealants should be used as part of a child's total preventive dental care. A dentist should examine the child's teeth and gums regularly to check bite, tooth eruption and the condition of both hard and soft tissues. A complete preventive dentistry program also includes: brushing and flossing, use of fluorides, good nutrition and regular dental check-ups.

Do sealants cost more than fillings?

The cost of sealing a tooth is considerably less than the cost of having a tooth filled.

Will sealants replace fluoride?

No! Fluorides such as those used in fluoridated water, fluoride toothpaste and fluoride mouth rinse help prevent decay on the smooth surfaces of teeth; however, fluorides have less effect on the rough, pitted chewing surfaces of the back teeth where food particles and decay producing bacteria are trapped. Sealants are effective on the uneven chewing surfaces.

Have sealants been thoroughly tested?

Yes! Thousands of children across the United States and in other countries have had their teeth sealed in controlled clinical studies. These studies have shown sealants to be effective, easy-to-apply, inexpensive and non-toxic. That's why the American Dental Association, the National Institute of Dental Research and the American Public Health Association have recommended sealants.