Sealants
Dental sealants are made of tooth-coloured plastic resin and are placed on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The purpose of sealants is to protect the grooves and pits in these teeth against the destructive effects of bacteria.
Teeth being considered for sealants are normally cleaned and dried before applying a thin layer of the plastic resin. In some cases there may be additional preparatory work including removing early decay. The plastic resin is illuminated by a high intensity curing light that causes the resin to set and harden. Sealants form a resilient barrier against the effects of plaque bacteria and acids in the mouth. The likelihood of decay decreases significantly after the application of sealants though a good regime of oral hygiene is still required. They can be expected to last for several years and will be reviewed at each examination to ensure that they remain effective.
Sealants are normally recommended for children at age six when their first molars appear and at age twelve when they get their permanent molars. Applying sealants soon after eruption of the molars is best before decay can occur. Sealants are designed to flow into the pits and fissures of the chewing surfaces of teeth. They do not work on the smooth walls of teeth and therefore they are applied only to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Protection of the other surfaces of the teeth not covered by sealants can be achieved by means of flouride treatments that remineralise teeth and guard against plaque bacteria and acids. Sealants and flouride treatments together are an effective safeguard against decay but should be suplimented by daily brushing and flossing as well as regular dental care.
Sealants are also suitable treatment for adults particularly those with a high decay rate and/or live in an area without flouride in their water supply.
