Sealants
Normal pits and grooves on the chewing surfaces of back teeth can trap food that can’t be removed by brushing or washed out by water or saliva. A sealant is a tough, plastic material designed to bond (stick) to tooth enamel.
The Problem
Protect normal pits and grooves on the chewing surface of back teeth.
Stop small amounts of decay from growing larger.
The Solution
A clear or tooth colored sealant is painted onto the tooth surface to “seal” the pits and grooves and protect against decay. They are generally applied to children’s first permanent back teeth. They can also be useful for adults in certain situations.
Advantages
Sealants are an excellent way to protect chewing surfaces of teeth from decay. They are a much better financial investment than treating decay after it has started.
Disdvantages
Sealants are not permanent. They generally last about five years with normal wear, but can wear off or chip off earlier in certain instances. Also, sealants do not prevent decay between teeth or the onset of gum disease, so regular home care and dental visits are important.
Alternatives
There are no appropriate alternatives to sealants. If a tooth has decay, it will need a filling or other restoration.