Our teeth are covered with a sticky film of bacteria, called plaque (sounds like PLAK). When we eat or drink anything that contains sugar-such as cookies, candy, soda, juice, or sports drinks-bacteria turn the sugar into acids that can attack tooth enamel. Over time, these attacks may cause tooth decay, or cavities. The good news is that there is a way to protect teeth and prevent decay: dental sealants.
Dental sealants are an easy way to help keep teeth healthy
A dental sealant is a plastic material that is put on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant material flows into the pits and grooves on those surfaces and acts like a barrier, protecting enamel by “sealing out” bacteria and bits of food.
That is how decay starts in the pits and grooves and cavities form. To keep decay from starting here, the dentist may recommend dental sealants.
Sealants help prevent tooth decay and cavities
Your teeth are coated with a sticky film of bacteria, called plaque. Bacteria turn the sugar in what you eat and drink into acids that can break down the hard, outer layer of teeth, called enamel. Over time, the acid can weaken the enamel and may cause tooth decay, or a hole to form in your tooth’s enamel (cavity).
Tooth decay often begins on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. These surfaces have pits and grooves where plaque, bacteria and bits of food can get trapped. Just like in the pictures below, toothbrush bristles can’t reach into the pits and grooves, and it makes it hard to keep them clean.
Your dentist may recommend dental sealants to keep decay from starting on these chewing surfaces in the pits and grooves.
Sealants are easy to apply
It takes only a few minutes for your dentist to seal each tooth. These are the steps your dentist may use to put sealants on your teeth
Sealants are smooth and you can’t feel them on your teeth. They are usually clear or white and can’t be seen when you smile or talk.
Your tooth is cleaned and the chewing surfaces are prepared to help the sealant materials stick to your tooth.
The sealant is painted onto the chewing surface where it bonds to your tooth and hardens.
A special light may be used to help the sealant harden.
Sealants can last several years
Sealants usually last several years before they need to be replaced. Over time, sealants can come off, which means they may not protect the teeth as well. Chewing on ice or hard foods can also break down sealants.
During regular dental visits, your dentist will check your sealants and reapply them if needed.
Sealants are safe and effective
Research has shown that dental sealants are safe, and they are effective. The American Dental Association recommends that dental sealants are an important step you should take to lower your risk of tooth decay and cavities. If you have any questions, talk to your dentist.