A sealant is a preventive dental treatment for children whose permanent back teeth have recently come into the mouth. Back teeth have deep pits and grooves, and are the most common areas for cavities to form, especially in children who may not be as proficient at brushing. A dental sealant is made of a clear or tooth-colored resin material, which is painted onto the chewing surface of the tooth. By blocking out the bacteria and food debris that lead to tooth decay, the sealant prevents decay and cavities. The dental sealant forms a smooth surface over the natural pits and grooves of the tooth surface, which also makes it easier to effectively clean your teeth with normal brushing. Most sealants last for several years and are painless to place.

Dental sealants are most often recommended for children’s permanent molars as soon as they come in, the first set around age 6 and the second around age 12. We may also recommend dental sealants for adult patients whose teeth are prone to decay. We can apply dental sealants in just one short, comfortable visit to our practice. Sealants can be a powerful tool in preventing decay and keeping your smile healthy. To learn more about dental sealants and how we can keep your smile in good health, we welcome you to call or visit our dentist today.