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Over the years dentistry has developed great ways and methods of preventing dental problems. One of these methods is placement of sealants on tooth surfaces which prevents decay in teeth. While sealants are by no means a cure all in preventing all forms of tooth decay, they are helpful to patients in controlling decay in certain areas of the mouth. While children have been the primary recipient of sealants in the past, recent advances in bonding technology and caries (decay) detection have led to more adults having sealants bonded to certain areas of their teeth.
What are Pit and Fissure Sealants?
Sealants are composite/plastic-like materials that help shield out decay-causing bacteria from the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. A sealant is bonded to the tooth surface in a procedure that is quick and painless. It is best to apply sealants to the permanent molars and premolars as soon as they appear in a child's mouth, generally between the ages of six and fourteen years of age. Adults can also take advantage of this decay preventing treatment if their teeth have not been treated in the past.
How do Sealants Prevent Decay?
Sealant material bonds to the chewing surface of the back teeth forming a protective barrier covering the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of the chewing surface. Decay-causing bacteria normally reside in these grooves and is difficult to remove with even the best of tooth brushing habits. By sealing the grooves, bacteria are not present and the tooth will not decay in this susceptible area.
Are Sealants Suitable for All Teeth?
Sealants are only applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Sealants are not meant for areas between the teeth or for the front teeth. Also, teeth that have decay or old fillings present are not sealed.
How are Sealants Applied?
Sealants are applied by a dental hygienist or dentist. First, the teeth to be treated are cleaned and polished. A mild acidic solution is placed on the chewing surface. This roughens the enamel surface to effectively bond with the sealant materia. After rinsing and drying the tooth, the sealant material is flowed onto the tooth. Then the dental hygienist or dentist shines a bright light on the area for a few seconds. This light hardens the sealant instantly. Finally the bite is checked. That's all there is to it!
How Long do Sealants Last?
With advances in dental technology and materials, properly applied sealants can last for many years. At checkup visits, we will check the sealants to make sure they are intact.
Do Sealants Take the Place of Fluoride?
Sealants and fluoride are both designed to prevent decay to prolong the life of your natural teeth. Sealants are applied topically to only certain susceptible areas of the back teeth. Fluoride is used to prevent or reduce dental decay on all surfaces of all teeth. It is absorbed by the teeth most effectively during the developmental years and is retained in tooth enamel permanently. Fluoride is supplied in a variety of forms, most commonly:
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Drinking water where fluoride has been added
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Topical application to your teeth during a routine dental exam and cleaning
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Commercially prepared mouth rinses used at home
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Numerous brands of toothpaste
Prevention of Dental Problems
Preventive dentistry is a five part approach. Maximum decay protection and care include:
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Twice-daily brushing and flossing
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Fluoride
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Pit and fissure sealants
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Regular checkups and cleaning by dental professionals
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A balanced diet
Final Thoughts
Many dental problems can and should be prevented. If you have any further questions regarding pit and fissure sealants or other preventive measures, please ask us. Our goal is to preserve your natural teeth and smile for a lifetime, and sealants help make this possible.
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