Dental Sealants for Prevention
Dental sealants are a form of preventative treatment that helps prevent or slow down the development of caries. We place plastic coatings on the chewing surface of the teeth, which are generally the molars or premolars. These teeth are the most susceptible to caries because food particles get stuck in the fissures of the tooth. When food accumulates in these areas, plaque forms and attacks the enamel, causing a cavity to form. The plastic coating of the dental sealant helps prevent the food from being stuck in the fissures of the tooth.
We place dental sealants when the first permanent molar erupts. The dental sealant will help protect children’s permanent teeth and may help prevent the formation of cavities. We can also place sealants on adults who are at high risk for forming dental caries. Sealants last for many years, but we recommend replacing them when they become worn down.