Sealants

Sealants help prevent tooth decay in adults and children.

Sealants are generally recommended for adults and children and are placed on the chewing surfaces of permanent pre-molars and molars to prevent (reduce) cavity formation. A sealant is a resin which is flowed into the pits and fissures of these teeth and cured using a light curing device. Sealants are recommended only on intact teeth; teeth which have not been previously filled and do not have active decay. Once the tooth demonstrates evidence of decay, then appropriate measures should be implemented for decay removal and the appropriate restoration. A sealant is no longer a viable option at that point in time.

A. Black pits and fissures on chewing surfaces of teeth.
B. Pits and fissures have been sealed on center tooth, preventing decay in that area. Most children need at least some sealants.