Dental
sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the grooves on the
chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from tooth decay. Most tooth
decay in children and teens occurs on these surfaces. Sealants protect the
chewing surfaces from tooth decay by keeping germs and food particles out of
these grooves. Permanent
molars are the most likely to benefit from sealants. The first molars usually
come into the mouth when a child is about 6 years old. Second molars appear at
about age 12. It is best if the sealant is applied soon after the teeth have
erupted, before they have a chance to decay.

Applying
sealants does not require drilling or removing tooth structure. The process is
short and easy. After the tooth is cleaned, a special gel is placed on the
chewing surface for a few seconds. The tooth is then washed off and dried.
Then, the sealant is painted on the tooth. The dentist or dental hygienist also
may shine a light on the tooth to help harden the sealant. It takes about a
minute for the sealant to form a protective shield.

Sealants
can only be seen up close. Sealants can be clear, white, or slightly tinted,
and usually are not seen when a child talks or smiles. As
with anything new that is placed in the mouth, a child may feel the sealant
with the tongue. Sealants, however, are very thin and only fill the pits and
grooves of molar teeth.

A
sealant can last for as long as 5 to 10 years. Sealants should be checked at
your regular dental appointment and can be reapplied if they are no longer in
place.

Sealants and fluorides work together to prevent tooth decay. Fluorides,
such as those used in toothpaste, mouth rinse, and community water supplies
also help to prevent decay, but in a different way. Sealants keep germs and
food particles out of the grooves by covering them with a safe plastic coating. 

Sealants
are one part of a child's total preventive dental care. A complete preventive
dental program also includes fluoride, twice-daily brushing, wise food choices,
and regular dental care. Decay damages
teeth permanently. Sealants protect them. Sealants can save time, money, and
the discomfort sometimes associated with dental fillings. Fillings are not
permanent. Each time a tooth is filled, more drilling is done and the tooth
becomes a little weaker.

From CDC’s Division of Oral Health, September 2009