DENTAL SEALANTS

Sealants are placed on posterior teeth (molars) as they erupt during childhood. Sealants may also be placed in adults. The surface of a molar is rough with sharp angles and deep grooves as it erupts. Generally our first molars erupt at 6 years old (6 year molars) and our second molars erupt at 12 years old (12 year molars). 

To keep food particles from embedding in these deep grooves, a sealant is placed and protects the biting surface of the tooth. If a sealant is not placed, then bacteria that are already present in the mouth will consumes the food particles and produces acid that causes cavities. Sealants can drastically reduce the risk of dental decay in molars. 

Placing sealants is quick, easy, and painless. The tooth is dried and prepared, sealant placed and hardened with a curing light.