Thin, plastic coatings which are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay.
These chewing surfaces, called molars, have irregular pits and grooves which tend to trap food and bacteria debris.
Sealants flow into these pits and grooves so that bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay.
WHY IS SEALING A TOOTH BETTER THAN FILLING A CAVITY?
Sealants help maintain sound teeth. Decay destroys the structure of the tooth. Each time a tooth is filled or a filling replaced, additional tooth structure is lost.
Amalgam fillings last an average of six to eight years before they need to be replaced.
Appropriate use of sealants can save time, money and the discomfort associated with restorative dental procedures.
HOW ARE SEALANTS APPLIED?
The procedure is quite simple and can be done by Dr. Rosenfeld or his hygienist. First, the teeth are cleaned.
Then the teeth to be sealed are dabbed with a very mild acid solution similar in strength to vinegar or lemon juice, which roughens the tooth surface very slightly so that the sealant will bond to it.
The sealant is then painted onto the tooth. It flows into the pits and grooves and hardens when light is applied.
After sealing, bacteria cannot reach the pits and grooves, and therefore cannot cause decay.
Applying sealants requires no drilling or removal of the tooth surface.
The tooth structure is left intact and healthy teeth are protected from decay forming bacteria.
HOW LONG WILL SEALANTS LAST?
As long as five years or even longer.
Regular check-ups are necessary to ensure sealants are reapplied when they appear to have worn off.
HOW DO SEALANTS FIT INTO A PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY PROGRAM?
For the greatest benefit, sealants should be used as part of a child's total preventive dental care.
Dr. Rosenfeld should examine your child's teeth and gums regularly to check bite, tooth eruption, and the condition of both hard and soft tissues.
Your child's complete preventive dentistry program also includes brushing and flossing; use of fluorides; good nutrition; and regular dental check-ups.
WILL SEALANTS REPLACE FLUORIDE?
No! Fluorides such as those used in fluoridated water, fluoridated toothpaste, and fluoride mouth rinse help prevent decay on the smooth surfaces of the teeth, but they have less effect on the rough, pitted chewing surfaces of the back teeth where sealants are most effective.
DO SEALANTS COST MORE THAN FILLINGS?
The cost of sealing a tooth is consistently less than the cost of having a tooth filled.
HAVE SEALANTS BEEN THOROUGHLY TESTED?
Yes! Thousands of children across the United States and in other countries have had their teeth sealed in controlled clinical studies.
These studies have shown sealants to be effective, easy-to-apply, inexpensive and non-toxic.
Sealants have been recommended by the American Dental Association, the National Institute of Dental Research, and the American Public Health Association.
