Sealants

A sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of back teeth.  More than 75% of dental decay begins in these deep grooves.  A sealant protects the tooth from cavity causing bacteria by sealing deep grooves, creating a smooth, easy to clean surface.

Reasons for sealants:

• Children and teenagers – As soon as the six-year molars (the first permanent back teeth) appear and again when the 12 year molars appear.

• Adults – Tooth surfaces that have deep grooves or depressions that are susceptible to decay

• Baby teeth – Occasionally Dr Barnes will place sealants on baby teeth  if teeth have deep grooves or depressions and  the child is cavity prone.

Placing Sealants:

Sealants are easily applied by your dentist or dental hygienist and the process usually takes less than a  minute per tooth.

The teeth to be sealed are thoroughly cleaned and then surrounded with cotton to keep the area dry.  Sealant material is carefully painted onto the enamel surface to cover the deep grooves or depressions.  A special light is used to harden the sealant material- and that’s it!