Sealants

Some teeth develop with irregularities on their chewing surfaces. These are referred to as pits and fissures. They occur due to a genetic predisposition, or because of a disruption in the growth and development mineralization process. Both baby teeth and adult teeth may be affected.

Food may easily become trapped in these pits and fissures causing cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth. This decay process may be prevented by the placement of sealants.

A sealant is a liquid filling material that is applied into the pits and fissures of the back teeth - the premolars and molars. It acts as a barrier, protecting the enamel from bacterial plaque. Decay will not start under a sealant because the decay causing bacteria are deprived of the food they need to survive.

Children are much more susceptible to tooth decay than adults. When possible, sealants should be applied to children's teeth as soon as they grow into the mouth, which is before decay has a chance to begin.

Sealants are easy and painless to apply. It takes a few minutes to seal each tooth. As long as the sealant remains intact, the chewing surface of a tooth will be protected from decay. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing, and usually last for several years.

If you would like more information feel free to call the office with any further questions.