Dental Sealants
A quick, painless coating that seals out cavities from the grooves of back teeth.
The back teeth have deep grooves where food and bacteria hide, and a child's toothbrush often cannot reach them. Sealants are a thin protective coating painted into those grooves, and the American Dental Association reports they lower the risk of cavities in molars by about 80 percent.
Who benefits
Sealants are usually placed on permanent molars soon after they come in, when children are still learning to brush thoroughly. They can also cover very early weak spots to stop decay from growing.
A quick, painless visit
- The tooth is cleaned and dried. No needles or drilling are needed.
- The sealant is brushed onto the chewing surface.
- A special light hardens it in seconds.
Sealants can last for several years. Dr. Lee checks them at each visit and touches them up when needed.