Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. Most tooth decay in children and adolescents occurs on the chewing surfaces of these back teeth, which are called molars. This is because molars have irregular surfaces with pits and grooves, which tend to trap food and bacteria debris. Sealants flow into and coat these pits and grooves so that bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay.

Sealants help maintain sound teeth. Decay destroys the structure of the tooth. Each time a tooth Is filled or a filling is replaces, additional tooth structure is lost. Amalgam fillings last an average of six to eight years before they need to be replaced. Appropriate use of sealants can save time, money and the discomfort associated with restorative dental procedures.

Applying sealants is quite simple. First, the teeth are cleaned. Then the teeth to be sealed are dabbed with a very mild acid solution similar in strength to vinegar or lemon juice. This roughens the tooth surface very slightly so that the sealant will bond to it properly. After the tooth is prepared, the sealant is painted onto the tooth. It flows into the pits and grooves and hardens in about 60 seconds. After sealing, bacteria cannot reach the pits and groove, and therefore cannot cause decay. Applying sealants requires no drilling or removal of the tooth surface. Tooth structure is left intact - healthy teeth are protected from decay-forming bacteria.

A sealant application can last for as long as five years and often longer. Sealants should be checked regularly and reapplied when they appear to have worn off. Because teeth are most susceptible to decay when they are young, preventing decay during the first 5 to 14 years after a tooth erupts is critical.

For maximum benefit, sealants should be used as part of a child's total preventive dental care. A dentist should examine the child's teeth and gums regularly to check bite, tooth eruption, and the condition of both hard and soft tissues. A complete preventive dentistry program also includes: brushing and flossing, use of fluorides, good nutrition and regular dental checkups.

The cost of sealing a tooth is consistently less than the cost of having a tooth filled

NO! Fluorides such as those used in fluoridated water, fluoride toothpaste, and fluoride mouth rinse help prevent decay on the smooth surfaces of teeth. However, fluorides have less effect on the rough, pitted chewing surfaces of the back teeth where food particles and decay-producing bacteria are trapped. Sealants, however, are only effective on the uneven chewing surfaces.