What are Sealants?

Sealants are a safe, painless and low cost way to protect your child's back teeth from decay. A thin layer of sealant is bonded to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant forms a hard shield that keeps food and bacteria from getting into the tiny growers in the teeth and causing decay.

Why should children have Sealants ?

The chewing surfaces of back teeth have tiny grooves that form as each tooth develops. This is where most decay occurs in children. This is because the bristles of the toothbrush cannot clean the food and bacteria trapped within the grooves. Which teeth to be sealed? Usually premolars and permanent molar surfaces are sealed.

Right Age for Sealants ?

Between 6 to 14 years of age.

How are Sealants Applied ?

Step 1 - The teeth are cleaned, dried and etched with a gel so that sealants can adhere.
Step 2 - The Sealant is painted on the tooth surface and then hardened with a special light.
Step 3 - The Sealant is carefully checked to see that all grooves are covered and that the Sealant does not interfere with chewing.

Follow Up

The dentist or hygienist will look at the Sealants at regular dental visits. If Sealants chip or fracture, which is rare, they can be easily replaced.