SEALANTS

A sealant is an adhesive material that bonds with the tooth to provide a physical barrier or shield from threats to the health of teeth. A sealant reduces the risk of tooth decay by shielding cavity-prone areas from food and plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that causes decay (cavities). The sealant is a tough plastic material designed to bond with tooth enamel (hard outer coating of the tooth) and form a shield against plaque. Sealants are barely visible because they are white or tooth-colored and are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars (back teeth) to keep food and plaque out of cavity-prone areas.

Sealants are usually applied to permanent back teeth that have just erupted. In some cases, sealants can be applied to baby teeth and to adult teeth, for patients who are expecially prone to tooth decay. If the decay process has already started, it is too late to apply sealants. This is why it's important to apply sealants as soon as the permanent teeth erupt. Decay will not start under a sealant because bacteria are deprived of the food and oxygen they need to flourish.

Sealants are usually long-lasting if the seal remains intact. Regular checkups are necessary to make sure sealants have not been dislodged. Abrasive foods such as candy, ice or sticky foods, can dislodge or damage sealants and should be avoided.