Even a toothbrush bristle is too big to reach inside a groove in the tooth (magnified).
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:
1. Your tooth is cleaned and the chewing surfaces are prepared to help the sealant materials stick to your tooth.
2. The sealant is painted onto the chewing surface where it bonds to your tooth and hardens.
3. A special light may be used to help the sealant harden.
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.
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.
You may benefit from sealants at any age
Sealants are recommended for children and teenagers, since tooth decay can start soon after teeth come in. But, you never outgrow the chance of tooth decay and cavities, so adults can benefit from sealants, too.
A sealant can be placed on a tooth that does not have a cavity in its pits and grooves. If a tooth is stained or has mild decay, your dentist may suggest you get a sealant, or another option may be necessary. If a tooth has more advanced decay, it will need a filling.
A sealant can be placed on a tooth that does not have a cavity in its pits and grooves. If your tooth is stained or has slight decay, your dentist may suggest you get a sealant, though other treatment may be necessary. If your tooth has more advanced decay or has a cavity, it will need a filling.
Prevention is always better than treatment! Sealants are very useful in preventing tooth decay on the back teeth and can save you money over time. Your dentist can make sealants part of your plan for a healthy mouth.
Sealant photos courtesy of Dr. Adam A. Francois.
