Dental Sealants

Sealants are clear or white plastic coatings that stick or bond to the surfaces of teeth. They are used to cover particular teeth to help prevent tooth decay. Sealants do not dissolve in saliva and are safe. They were developed in the 1960s and have been widely used since this time.
Sealants block the physical effects of early tooth decay. A combination of sealants (on teeth) and fluoride (in water or toothpaste) will virtually eliminate decay in the permanent teeth of many children.  Decay is now much less common, although preventable decay still occurs. Most decay starts in the narrow pits and grooves on the biting surfaces of teeth in the back of the mouth, these narrow pits and grooves are too small for the bristles of toothbrushes to get in to clean. Germs from plaque living in the grooves can make acid, which may cause tooth decay. Sealants painlessly fill and block up grooves that are too small for the toothbrush to clean.

Sealants:

Are applied by a dentist, dental therapist or oral health therapist

Fill and block up the small pits and grooves in the teeth to prevent decay

Take a few minutes to apply to the teeth

Are painless

Do not require injections

Do not require drilling.

Can last from two to seven years, but may last up to 15 years.

Your dentist, dental therapist or oral health therapist should check sealants regularly.

To apply sealants, the dental care provider will:

Prepare teeth - clean and dry the tooth or teeth

Apply sealant - a thin layer of plastic liquid into the groove or pit, similar to how nail polish is painted onto a fingernail.

Placed on permanent teeth - in the back of the mouth as they have the highest risk of tooth decay. In most children, the first permanent molars appear about age six or seven years and the second molars about age 11 or 12 years. The liquid then hardens into a tough layer that prevents decay occurring.

Remember to:

Clean your teeth at least twice a day after meals

Eat a healthy diet and enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods.

Limit sugary foods and sweets especially between meals

Drink plenty of tap water especially fluoridated water

Have regular dental check-ups with your local 1300SMILES dentist.

Article source Better Health Victoria