What are Dental Sealants?

~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

Today I am answering your questions about Sealants. So many of you have been writing in asking about Sealants so for you in honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month I am dedicating this post to your questions.

What are Sealants? Sealants protect the groovy chewing surfaces of back teeth where most cavities in children are found. Made of clear or tooth colored plastic-like material, they are applied to the teeth to help keep them cavity free.

Are Sealants safe? Yes the are. The flowable material is safe and the light used to harden the sealant is a special wavelength that is completely safe. The light isn’t a laser or an x-ray.

How do sealants work? Even with flossing and brushing carefully, it can be difficult to keep the tiny grooves and pits on the molars clean. Food and bacteria build up in these crevices increasing the risk of cavities. Sealants “seal out” food and plaque, reducing the risk of cavities.

How do you apply sealants? The application of a sealant is quick and comfortable. It takes only one visit. First the tooth is cleaned, a conditioner is applied and then dried. The sealant is flowed onto the grooves of the tooth and hardened with a special light. Your child will be able to eat right after their appointment.

How long do sealants last? Sealants can last several years when cared for, and protect your child’s teeth through out the most cavity prone years. With good oral hygiene and avoiding biting on hard objects, sealants will last longer. Sealants are checked during routine dental visits.

Which teeth should be sealed? The natural flow of saliva usually keeps the smooth surfaces of teeth clean but does not wash out the tiny grooves and pits. So the teeth most at risk for cavities are those recommended for sealants and they are the permanent molars, the 6 year old and 12 year old molars. Many times the permanent premolars and baby molars will also benefit from sealant coverage. Any tooth surface with “nooks and crannies” can benefit from the protection of sealants. Sealants offer no benefit to smooth flat surfaces, so sealants are not applied to those areas.

If my child has sealants, is flossing, brushing and fluoride still important? They are definitely important! Sealants are one step in the plan to help keep your child cavity free.

Are sealants recommended for all children? No, just like your child is an individual so are their teeth. A lot goes into a conversation about whether to seal or not to seal teeth. It’s all based on the specific needs for your child.

More tips? We have lots. We’re her just for kids!

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Published by kidstoothhotline

As a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist with over ten years of experience practicing Pediatric Dentistry, I understand that parents and caregivers are in need for information to care for their children's oral health. You may not have your normal lines of communication open or you cannot easily call or visit your child’s Dentist and obtain answers to your questions. Some families may not yet have a Pediatric Dentist to call. My expertise and knowledge can help serve as your source as I provide answers with information that is current, informative and the Gold Standards of Care which are the practice Guidelines approved by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. I want to help you access this important information by answering your questions through this site. You may want to submit your own individual questions or you can view my postings and answers to other families questions that may apply to your child's needs. I am committed to helping you stay informed, after all it is all about your child.