Frequently Asked Questions
Dental Sealants
1.
Q: What are dental sealants?
A:
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings
which are applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars (back
teeth). Most tooth decay in children and teens occurs in these
surfaces. Sealants cover the chewing surfaces to prevent decay.
2. Q: Which teeth are
suitable for sealants?
A: Permanent molars are the most
likely to benefit from sealant application. First molars usually
come into the mouth when a child is about 6 years of age. Second
molars appear at about age 12. It is best if the sealant is
applied soon after the molars have erupted, before the teeth have
a chance to decay. For that reason, children between the ages of 5
and 15 benefit most from sealants.
3. Q: How are
sealants applied?
A: Applying sealants does not require
drilling or removing tooth structure. It is an easy three-step
process: A dentist or dental hygienist cleans the tooth with a
special toothpaste. A special cleansing liquid, on a tiny piece of
cotton, is rubbed gently on the tooth and is washed off. Finally,
the sealant is painted on the tooth. It takes about a minute for
the sealant to form a protective shield.
4. Q: Are
sealants visible?
A: Upon close examination sealants
can be seen. Sealants can be clear, white, or slightly tinted.
Because they are used only on the back teeth, sealants cannot be
seen when a child talks or smiles.
5. Q: Will
sealants make teeth feel different?
A: Like anything new that is placed
in the mouth, a child may feel the sealant with the tongue.
Sealants, however, are very thin and only fill the pits and
grooves on molar teeth.
6. Q: How long
will sealants last?
A: One sealant application can last
for as long as 5 to 10 years. Sealants should be checked
regularly, and reapplied if they are no longer in place.
7. Q: Will
sealants replace fluoride?
A: No... fluorides, such as those
used in community water, toothpaste, and mouthrinse also help to
prevent decay. Fluoride works best on the smooth surfaces of
teeth. The chewing surfaces on the back teeth, however, have tiny
grooves where decay often begins. Sealants keep germs out of the
grooves by covering them with a safe plastic coating. Sealants and
fluorides work together to prevent tooth decay.
8. Q: How do
sealants fit into a preventive dentistry program?
A: Sealants should be used as part of
a child's total preventive dental care. A complete preventive
dental program includes use of sealants, fluoride, plaque removal,
careful food choices, and regular dental care.
9. Q: Why is sealing a tooth better
than waiting for decay and filling the cavity?
A: Sealants help maintain sound,
intact teeth. Decay destroys the structure of the tooth. Each time
a tooth is filled or a filling is replaced, additional tooth
structure is lost. Fillings last an average of 6 to 8 years before
they need to be replaced. Appropriate use of sealants can save
time, money, and the discomfort associated with dental treatment
procedures.
