A sealant is a clear or white plastic coating that is placed on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to help prevent tooth decay.

What is plaque?

Dental plaque is a biofilm or mass of bacteria that grows on surfaces within the mouth. Plaque is a sticky, colorless deposit. It is commonly found between the teeth, on the front of teeth, behind teeth, on chewing surfaces, along the gumline or below the gumline. Bacterial plaque is one of the major causes for dental decay and gum disease.

How sealants help protect against plaque

Oral hygiene and sealants are important because dental biofilms may become acidic, causing demineralization of the teeth, also known as dental caries.

Molars and premolar teeth have deep grooves and pits that are very difficult to keep clean. As a preventative measure, a sealant may be placed. A sealant is a thin plastic coating painted on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. The sealant quickly bonds into the depressions and grooves of the teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth.

Placing a sealant

To place a sealant, we thoroughly clean and dry your teeth. Cotton rolls or another absorbent material is placed around the tooth to keep it dry. An etch solution is placed, which helps the sealant bond to the tooth. The tooth is rinsed and dried again. Sealant is then painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. Sometimes a special curing light is used to help the sealant harden. You may eat and drink immediately after the sealant is placed.

Sealants can protect teeth from decay, but they need to be checked for chipping or wearing at preventative dental recare appointments.

A sealant is an effective preventative procedure that can defend your teeth against caries and help preserve your oral health.