SEALANTS

Overview

Sealants are resins bonded onto the biting surfaces of teeth, to prevent decay. Deep grooves and fissures on teeth trap food and bacteria where your toothbrush cannot reach. Such surfaces are especially susceptible to decay.

Who Should Have Sealants?
Sealants are usually applied in children, however, they are also indicated in adults who are at high risk of decay. Sealants are most effective when applied on:

• teeth with deep grooves
• newly erupted, caries free teeth which do not already have a filling
• teeth in individuals who are at high caries risk

Sealants can be applied on the molars of both primary and permanent teeth.

How Are Sealants Applied?
The application of sealants is quick and painless because no drilling of tooth structure is needed. Your dentist will,

• clean the surface of the tooth to be sealed with an abrasive paste
• isolate your tooth with cotton rolls to keep it dry
• etch your tooth with a mild acid
• wash and dry the tooth again before applying the sealant

How Effective Are Sealants?
Sealants reduce decay on biting surfaces of teeth by as much as 70% after 5 years. They are an important component of a total caries preventive programme. Your dentist is the best person to customise a programme for you based on your caries risk profile.

Sealants need to be checked and maintained as they can wear down, or be dislodged. This is easily fitted in during your regular check up with your dentist. Even if a sealant is damaged or lost, it is easily repaired and replaced. Regular maintenance by your dentist will help you get the best use of your sealants.