Childrens Teeth » Sealants

 

Sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth.  Sealants are painted on as a liquid and quickly harden to form a shield over the tooth.  The most important reason for getting sealants is to avoid tooth decay.  Children should get sealants on their permanent molars as soon as the teeth come in -- before decay attacks the teeth.

Fluoride in toothpaste and in drinking water protects the smooth surfaces of teeth but back teeth need extra protection. Sealants cover the chewing surfaces of the back teeth and keep out germs and food.

Having sealants put on teeth before they decay will also save time and money in the long run by avoiding fillings, crowns, or caps used to fix decayed teeth.

1. The tooth is cleaned. 2. The tooth is dried, and cotton is put around the tooth so it stays dry. 3. A solution is put on the tooth that makes the surface a little rough. (It is easier for the sealant to stick to a slightly rough surface.)
     
 4. The tooth is rinsed and dried. Then new cotton is put around the tooth so it stays dry.  5. The sealant is applied in liquid form and hardens in a few seconds.  6. The sealant is in place.