Q.: Why should my child get dental sealants?
Since the early 1970s, childhood dental caries on smooth tooth surfaces (those without pits and fissures) has declined markedly because of widespread exposure to fluorides. By 1986-1987, approximately 90 percent of the decay in children’s teeth occurred in tooth surfaces with pits and fissures, and almost two-thirds were found on the chewing surfaces alone. Dental sealants have been shown to prevent decay on tooth surfaces with pits and fissures. Sealants have been approved for use for many years and are recommended by professional health associations and public health agencies.

Q.: When should my child get dental sealants?
First permanent molars erupt into the mouth at about age 6 years. Placing sealants on these teeth shortly after they erupt protects them from developing caries in areas of the teeth where food and bacteria collect. If sealants were applied routinely to susceptible tooth surfaces in conjunction with the appropriate use of fluoride, most tooth decay in children could be prevented.

Second permanent molars erupt into the mouth at about age 12 years. Pit and fissure surfaces of these teeth are as susceptible to dental caries as the first permanent molars of younger children. Therefore, young teens need to receive dental sealants shortly after the eruption of their second permanent molars.

Q.: Are dental sealants just for kids?
The potential to develop pit and fissure decay begins early in life, so children and teenagers are obvious candidates. But some adults at high risk of decay can benefit from sealants as well. Your dentist can tell you if you would benefit from dental sealants.

Do dental sealants replace fluoride?
No. Fluorides, such as those used in community water, toothpaste, gels, varnish, and mouth rinse also help to prevent decay. Fluoride works best on the smooth surfaces of teeth. The chewing surfaces on the back teeth, however, have tiny grooves where decay often begins. Sealants keep cavity-causing bacteria out of the grooves by covering them with a safe plastic coating. Sealants and fluorides work together to prevent tooth decay.

Q. What are fissure sealants?

• Fissure sealants are plastic coatings that help to prevent tooth decay when applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. 
• The chewing surfaces of the molar and pre-molar permanent teeth are pitted and grooved with lines and fissures, which are difficult to clean. Decay-causing bacteria thrive in these areas. 
• When a fissure sealant is placed into these grooves and fissures, it shields them from plaque and food particles. This reduces the risk of decay. 
• The sealant is applied to a dry tooth and is then chemically bonded to it. 
• The sealano It is a painless and quick treatment. No local anaesthetic is needed. 
• Sealants are tooth-coloured and are quite unobtrusive. 
• They can last for many years. 

Q. When should a tooth be sealed?

• A tooth should be sealed soon after it has erupted. 
• A newly erupted tooth is not yet fully calcified (hardened) and is susceptible to decay.
• The sooner it can be protected by a fissure sealant, the better. 
• These sealants will be checked by your dentist every six months, as part of the professional oral care program. 
• Sealants can be repaired or replaced if necessary.

Q. Which teeth should be sealed?

• The permanent molars are usually the teeth to be sealed.
• Where pre-molar teeth are deeply grooved or pitted, they should also be treated. 
• As much as 90% of all dental caries in schoolchildren occurs in pits and fissures. The teeth at highest risk by far are the permanent first and second molars. 
• Baby teeth are not usually treated in this way. However, if the baby teeth are very decayed, it is a sign that the child is susceptible to tooth decay.