DENTAL SEALANTS

Sealants protect the chewing surface of permanent molars and premolars from decay. Normal pits and grooves on the chewing surfaces of back teeth trap food and bacteria that cannot be removed by brushing.

A sealant is a tough, tooth-colored plastic material designed to bond to tooth enamel and fill in the pits and grooves so that bacteria does not cause decay. The material is painted onto the tooth surface comfortably and without the need for numbing.

Sealants do not prevent decay in between the teeth, so regular brushing, flossing and dental cleanings and exams are important.