One of the most common places cavities develop is on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, in the pits and fissures. Regular tooth brushing, flossing, and the natural flow of saliva will help keep the smooth surfaces and the surfaces between the teeth clean, but the pits and fissures are difficult to keep clean as the toothbrush bristles cannot reach into them. Sealants were developed to act as a barrier to protect the pits and fissures from bacteria and the acid produced by plaque, thereby preventing a cavity from forming on this surface. Sealants can benefit both children and adults. Since it has been found that cavities on these surfaces begin in childhood and during the teenage years, the teeth that benefit the most from sealants are the first and second permanent molars which come into the mouth at six and twelve years old respectively.
The application is a simple process that can be completed in one visit. The tooth surface must be cleaned and dried for the sealant to adhere properly. The teeth to be sealed are thoroughly cleaned and conditioned, then dried with air. The sealant is then applied to the tooth surface where it will bond to the enamel. A special curing light is used to help the sealant harden. This light activates a catalyst in the sealant that initiates its set, or hardening process.
Sealants generally last for several years. Chewing hard objects and grinding of the teeth can cause the sealants to last a shorter time. The sealants are checked during routine visits and if a reapplication is necessary, it will be indicated.
Pediatric dentists use sealants as a preventive tool. They are applied where a cavity has not formed so that it will not form. There has been a great reduction in the number of cavities that form on this surface since the development and implementation of sealants.