A dental sealant is an acrylic-like material that shields out decay-causing bacteria from the grooved chewing surfaces of teeth. More than 75% of dental decay begins in the pit and fissure areas of back teeth. At Art and Science Dental, we base our diagnosis and recommendations for dental sealants on the patient’s susceptibility to tooth decay and how the teeth were shaped when they originally formed below the gum; some teeth are groovier than others and some even erupt with holes in them. Generally sealants are applied to permanent teeth, but may be needed on primary or baby teeth as well.
No freezing is required and it takes only a few minutes per tooth to apply. The sealant effect can last many years. At Art and Science Dental we check your sealants at each recare appointment to make sure the sealant material is intact. Occasionally we may need to replace, or add a new layer of sealant to help keep the protective barrier strong and effective.
Sealants are extremely effective in preventing tooth decay.
