A sealant is a plastic material which is applied to the back teeth (molars). The plastic protects the chewing surfaces by covering the deep grooves and crevices. The sealant basically shields the tooth from the damaging plaque and acids. Sealants literally “seal out” decay.

Who should have sealants?

Children and teenagers are the best candidates for sealants due to the possibility of tooth decay in the crevices and grooves of the premolars and molars. Generally, children should have the sealants placed on permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth erupt in their mouth. Once placed, sealants can protect the teeth throughout the cavity-prone years.