 Dental
sealants are thin plastic coatings painted on the chewing surfaces of the
molars (the back teeth) to prevent dental decay (cavities). The chewing
surfaces on the back teeth are uneven because they have small pits and
grooves. Food and bacteria can get stuck in the pits and stay there a long
time where toothbrush bristles, floss, and rinses cannot remove them. By
covering the chewing surfaces of the molars, sealants keep out the bacteria
and food that cause decay. Sealants are safe,
painless, and take only minutes for a dental professional to apply. Teeth are
brushed clean and sealants are painted onto the teeth. No drilling or
anesthesia is required.
What are the
benefits of sealants?
Sealants are slippery and make it harder for plaque
that causes decay to stick in the pits and grooves of molars. Because sealants
can prevent more than 80% of dental decay in children, they reduce the need
for fillings and other more expensive treatment. Sealants are an economical
preventive measure to keep teeth healthy for years.
Who should
have sealants?
All children with permanent molars should have
access to sealants. Unfortunately, only 10% of 8 year-olds and 13% of 14
year-olds in California have sealants.
If children
use fluoride, do they still need sealants?
Yes,
both should be used. Sealants and fluoride work together to prevent dental
decay. Sealants prevent decay in the pits and grooves of the chewing surfaces
of the molars, while fluoride prevents decay on the smooth surfaces of all
teeth.
Are sealants
new?
No, dental sealants have been used for over 30 years
and are approved by the American Dental Association, the National Institute of
Dental Research, and the American Public Health Association.
Does dental
insurance cover sealants?
Sealants are a covered dental benefit through
Medi-Cal (Denti-Cal) Services, the Healthy Families Program and most private
insurance.
How effective are
sealants?
Because sealants form a barrier that
protects pits and grooves against bacteria and foods, like sugars and
starches, the use of sealants can substantially reduce the number of cavities
beyond that already achieved by fluorides and other preventive methods.
Numerous studies show that sealants are
highly effective in preventing cavities in pits and grooves. These studies
cover a span of 26 years and show that in pits and grooves that remain sealed,
protection is 100%. If a sealant is damaged or lost, it is easily repaired or
replaced.
Even early decay appears to be halted
when covered with a sealant. The cavity causing bacteria are unable to survive
when cut off from food sources.
For comparative purposes, recent studies
show that a properly placed sealant will last for a period of time
approximately that of a typical amalgam (silver) filling.
Are there
risks associated with
the use of sealants?
The risks associated with the use of pit
and fissure sealants are minimal, and sealants are safe when properly placed
using state-of-the art materials and procedures. Sealants are similar to or
the same as plastics that have been used for other dental purposes such as
tooth colored fillings, for many years.
Which teeth are
most frequently
in need of sealants?
Children should get sealants on their
permanent molars as soon as the teeth erupt. When the application is delayed,
cavities may start, and the surface can no longer be considered for a sealant.
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The first permanent molars, called
"the 6 year molars", come in between the ages of 5 and 7.
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The second permanent molars, called
"the 12 year molars", come in when the child is between 11 and 14
years old.
-
The other teeth with pits and grooves
called "premolars" are right in front of the molars and also may
need to be sealed.
Teenagers and young adults without
cavities or fillings in their molars also may get sealants. Theoretically, any
tooth may develop with a pit or groove. By careful examination, your dentist
is able to find them.
Should sealants also be put on
baby teeth?
Your dentist might think it is a good
idea, especially if your child's baby teeth have deep pits and grooves.
Baby teeth play an important role in
holding the correct spacing for permanent - it is important to keep baby teeth
healthy so they don't fall out early.
How much do sealants cost?
Sealing one tooth usually costs less than
filling one tooth.
Having sealants put on healthy teeth now
can save you money in the long run by avoiding fillings, crowns, or caps used
to fix decayed teeth.
The most important reason for getting
sealants is to avoid cavities. Healthy teeth can last a lifetime!
Does insurance pay for sealants?
Many insurance companies pay for
sealants. Check with your company for details.
How long do sealants last?
Sealants can last up to 10 years. But
they need to be checked at regular dental visits to make sure they are not
chipped or worn away. The dentist can repair sealants by adding more sealant
material.
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