Dental sealants act as a barrier, protecting the teeth against decay-causing bacteria.
Dental sealants are highly effective in preventing decay on the biting surfaces of your chewing teeth. It is a simple procedure in which a tooth-colored acrylic “coating” is painted onto the surface of the tooth. This effectively seals the deep grooves, acting as a barrier and protecting enamel from plaque and acids.
Sealants protect the depressions and grooves of your teeth from food particles and plaque that brushing and flossing can’t reach. Both children and adults can benefit from sealants in the fight against tooth decay.
Sealants are easy to apply, and it takes only a few minutes to seal each tooth. First, the teeth that will be sealed are cleaned and prepared to accept the sealant. The sealant is then painted onto the biting surface of the tooth, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens with the help of a special curing light. Sealants are generally clear or white and cannot be seen when you smile or talk.
Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and can last several years before a reapplication is needed.
Dental sealants can help prevent decay, saving you time and money that would have otherwise been spent on restorative dental procedures. However, even with dental sealants it is important to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.