A sealant is a plastic material that is usually applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, premolars and molars. The plastic resin bonds into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of the chewing surfaces. The sealant acts as a barrier protecting enamel from plaque and acids.
Thorough brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth but toothbrush bristles cannot reach all the way into the depressions and grooves to remove food and plaque. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas by “sealing out” plaque and food.
Is it a Complicated Procedure?
Sealants are easy to apply and it takes only a few minutes to seal each tooth. The teeth that will be sealed are cleaned and then the chewing surfaces are roughened with an acid solution to help the sealant adhere to the tooth. The sealant is then “painted” onto the tooth enamel where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. A special curing light is used to harden the sealant.
Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and usually last several years before a reapplication is needed. During your regular dental visits we will check the condition of the sealants and reapply them when necessary.
Are Sealants just for Children?
The likelihood of developing pit and fissure decay begins early in life so children and teenagers are obvious candidates. However, adults can benefit from sealants as well.
SEALANTS + FLUORIDE + GOOD ORAL CLEANING HABITS + WISE EATING = GREAT REDUCTION IN CAVITIES
Check with us at Australia Dental Burpengary to see if your child is ready for sealants. These are normally put on when their first set of molars erupts.
