Sealants
A dental sealant is a plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Pits and grooves in these teeth are so narrow that a toothbrush cannot fit into the spaces to remove plaque. Dental sealants prevent dental decay in the grooves.
Sealants can provide 100% protection from dental decay or "cavities" on the chewing surface. Research has shown that when placed over very minimal dental decay, the decay will no longer progress.
Children should receive sealants on permanent molars as soon as they erupt (about ages 6 and 12 years).
If a tooth already has a filling, then it does not get a dental sealant. Sealants are simple, painless, and require no drilling.
While they may last up to 10 years, 2 to 4 years is a more reasonable estimate. Sealants can be highly effective in protection against cavities provided the sealant is continuously monitored by a dentist. Sealants should be checked by a dentist during regular checkups, and if needed they can be re-applied.
Sealants can provide 100% protection from dental decay or "cavities" on the chewing surface. Research has shown that when placed over very minimal dental decay, the decay will no longer progress.
Children should receive sealants on permanent molars as soon as they erupt (about ages 6 and 12 years).
If a tooth already has a filling, then it does not get a dental sealant. Sealants are simple, painless, and require no drilling.
While they may last up to 10 years, 2 to 4 years is a more reasonable estimate. Sealants can be highly effective in protection against cavities provided the sealant is continuously monitored by a dentist. Sealants should be checked by a dentist during regular checkups, and if needed they can be re-applied.