DENTAL SEALANT

What is a dental sealant?

A sealant is a thin coating of plastic film, which is applied by the pediatric dentist to the chewing surfaces of posterior teeth. Their aim is to create a barrier against the bacteria that cause caries in the pits and fissueres of these teeth. 

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Which teeth should be protected?

The teeth usually protected in this way are the first permanent molars.  These are the most important teeth in the oral cavity and caries very often develop if the teeth are not protected. Sealants should also be placed on the second permanent molars as well as on every posterior tooth having deep and narrow pits and fissures, thus presenting an increased risk for caries development.

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When should the sealants be placed?

It has been found that most of the caries usually appear during the first years after tooth eruption in the oral cavity. Therefore, sealants should be applied as soon as possible after the eruption of the first and second permanent molars, specifically around the age of 6 or 7 and 12 or 13 years.

How do sealants protect teeth from caries?

The chewing surfaces of posterior teeth have naturally occurring depressions and grooves called pits and fissures respectively.  These irregular formations trap food and plaque which is difficult to clean with a toothbrush.  As it is also difficult for fluoride to penetrate these areas, the pits and fissures often get cavities.  Sealants flow into the pits and fissures and seal the chewing tooth surfaces. The protection that sealants provide, if they remain in place, is 100%.

How are sealants placed?

Their application is very easy and demands only one visit. The paediatric dentist prepares the tooth surface which will accept the sealant.

Sealants in a liquid form are painted on the chewing surfaces without drilling the tooth and without administrating anaesthesia.  As the sealant dries out, it becomes as hard as the tooth.  Placement of a sealant is easy and quick and because no tooth structure is removed, it is a painless procedure.

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How long do sealants last?

Research has shown that sealants last for many years (1-5 years) and they protect teeth efficiently as long as they remain intact in their place. They can also be replaced or repaired, if necessary, to increase their effectiveness.

How much do sealants cost?

The cost of sealants is small, approximately half of the cost of a regular filling restoration. In addition one can take into consideration that sealant provides a healthy tooth for many years without having the need for restoration.

Should sealants be monitored?

Since they can be displaced from the tooth, they should be checked by the dentist every 6-8 months and be replaced, if it is necessary.