Sealants

Our teeth are constantly being covered with a sticky film of bacteria, called plaque. When we eat or drink anything that contains sugar- such as cookies, candy, soda, juice, fruit, milk, and many other foods and beverages- bacteria turn the sugar into acids that can attack tooth enamel. Over time repeated attacks may result in decay. The good news is that there is a way to protect your teeth and prevent decay: dental sealants.

How do sealants work?

• A dental sealant is a plastic material that is applied to a chewing surface of a back tooth.
• The sealant material flows into the pits and grooves in the teeth
• The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting enamel by “sealing out” plaque and food.

How are sealants applied?

• The teeth to be sealed are cleaned and prepared to help the sealant stick to the tooth.
• The sealant is then “painted” onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds to the tooth and hardens.
  Sometimes a special curing light is used to harden the sealant
• However, your child will get used to it within a few days and will eventually forget about it.

How long do sealants last?

• Sealants may last several years before they wear out.
• They hold up well with everyday chewing, but chewing on hard foods, like hard candies, can break down the sealant.
• Sometimes the sealants become worn away or may come off, and the tooth loses its protection. At this time they must be replaced.