Sealants are highly effective in preventing tooth decay and cavities on your molars and premolars. These areas are the most susceptible to cavities due to the anatomized grooves. Sealants also protect food, plaque and acid from damaging your back teeth since it is difficult to thoroughly brush them.
request an appointmentTypically, children get sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in. However, adults without decay of fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.
The process of applying sealants is easy and fast. The application steps are as follows:
- A thorough cleaning is done of the teeth that need to be sealed
- Each tooth is dried
- A solution is put on the chewing surfaces of the teeth to help the sealant bond to the teeth
- The sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens with the help of a special curing light
Sealants act as a barrier and protect the enamel from plaque and acids. They may last for several years before a reapplication is needed. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay.
Sealants are not a substitute for brushing your teeth. It is important to maintain proper oral hygiene. Also, sealants do not protect between the teeth, so it is essential to continue to floss.