Sealants
A sealant is a clear or coloured resin that flows into the grooves and depressions of the back teeth filling them in, rendering these areas resistant to tooth decay.
Protect your child's teeth
It is a fact that cavities start mainly in the grooves and pits on the biting surfaces of posterior teeth. Not only are these fine grooves inaccessible to the cleaning action of the toothbrush bristles, but they also have a very thin layer of protective enamel making them more susceptible to decay.
A sealant is a clear or coloured plastic material that flows into the grooves and depressions of the back teeth filling them in, rendering these areas resistant to tooth decay. Sealants are generally placed on children’s permanent back teeth because access to cleaning and regular oral hygiene can be problematic in this age group. They should be applied as soon as the first molars are fully erupted between six and seven years of age, as sealants are only effective on decay free teeth.
A sealant is a clear or coloured resin that flows into the grooves and depressions of the back teeth filling them in, rendering these areas resistant to tooth decay.
Sealants are easily placed and well tolerated by children, as they require no anaesthetic. The procedure is as follows:
- The tooth surface is cleaned to remove plaque and debris.
- A gel is applied that allows the sealant to penetrate and adhere.
- Liquid sealant is allowed to flow into the grooves.
- A light is placed over the liquid sealant to harden it and allow it to set.
