Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the grooves on the chewing surface of back molars to protect them from cavities. Most tooth decay in children and teens happens on these surfaces. These teeth have pits and grooves that trap plaque, bacteria and bits of food. The pits and grooves are hard to keep clean, because toothbrush bristles cannot reach into them. Sealants effectively prevent tooth decay on the back teeth and can save patients money in the long run.
 
Sealants are most often applied to the teeth of children and teenagers since decay can start soon after teeth come in. But adults can sometimes benefit from sealants if they are at high risk for decay and have deep pits and grooves in their molars. Sealants often last several years before they wear away.