What is a dental sealant?

 

A dental sealant is a product that is used to seal out the problems that may be affecting a child’s mouth, sometimes referred to as a  “pit and fissure” sealant. A plastic product, the material is applied in a professional manner to allow for a chewing surface to be put on back teeth that may have been worn down or simply just in very bad shape. In some cases, it can even be used as a preventative technique to protect healthy teeth.

 

The goal of a dental sealant is to lock out cavities of all sorts. By placing this protective coating over the back of the teeth, the dental sealant will form a physical barrier preventing bacteria from getting into the pits and fissures on the tops of the teeth. If not brushed away immediately, the bacteria can enter these areas and easily cause cavities.

 

Who should get them?

 

Many of the individuals who get dental sealants are children. However, adults can also benefit at times from getting sealants, especially in higher risk cases. When those individuals are in jeopardy of getting tooth decay, dentists can (and do) use dental sealants to effectively block out the bacteria that can destroy or break down a tooth. Ask one of our staff today if dental sealants are right for you or your child.