Sealants are clear or white plastic coatings that stick or bond to the surfaces of teeth. They are used to cover particular teeth to help prevent tooth decay. Sealants do not dissolve in saliva and are safe. They were developed in the 1960s and have been widely used since this time.
Sealants block the physical effects of early tooth decay
A combination of sealants (on teeth) and fluoride (in water or toothpaste) will virtually eliminate decay in the permanent teeth of many children. In children:
- Fluoride in the water supply and toothpaste, and the School Dental Program, have reduced tooth decay in children.
- Decay is now much less common, although preventable decay still occurs.
- Most decay starts as narrow pits and grooves on the biting surfaces of teeth in the back of the mouth, these narrow grooves are too small for the thick bristles of toothbrushes to get in to clean.
- Germs from plaque living in the grooves can make acid, which may causes tooth decay.
Sealants fill up the grooves
Sealants painlessly fill and block up grooves that are too small for the toothbrush to clean. Sealants:
- Are applied by a dentist or dental therapist
- Fill and block up the small pits and grooves in the teeth to prevent decay
- Take a few minutes to apply to the teeth
- Are painless
- Do not require injections
- Do not require drilling.
- Can last from two to seven years, but may last up to 15 years.
- Your dentist or dental hygienist should check sealants regularly
How sealants are put on teeth
To apply sealants, the dental care provider will:
- Prepare teeth - clean and dry the tooth or teeth
- Apply sealant - a thin layer of plastic liquid into the groove or pit, just like how nail polish is painted onto a fingernail.
- Placed on permanent teeth - in the back of the mouth those have the highest risk of tooth decay. In most children, the first permanent molars appear about age six or seven years and the second molars about age 11 or 12 years.
The liquid then hardens into a tough layer that prevents decay occurring.
Other tips for healthy teeth
Correct cleaning of your teeth and a healthy diet also helps to eliminate dental decay. Remember to:
- Clean your teeth at least twice a day after meals.
- Eat a healthy diet and enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods.
- Limit sugary foods and sweets, especially between meals.
- Drink plenty of tap water, especially fluoridated water.
- Have regular dental check-ups.
Where to get help
- Your dentist
- Your dental therapist
- School Dental Program
- Your community health centre
Things to remember
- Sealants are applied onto the teeth to protect teeth and prevent tooth decay
- Sealants fill up the small grooves on your teeth that are hard to clean
- Regular cleaning of teeth, eating a healthy diet, limiting sugary foods and drinking plenty of tap water also helps to prevent tooth decay
You might also be interested in:
Dental care - common conditions - 0 to 5 years.
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