Our teeth, especially the ones in the back of the mouth, have deep grooves and small pits found mostly on the chewing surfaces. Research and experience has shown us that most decay occurs in these pits and grooves. This is especially true with children and adolescents. These pits and grooves are smaller than the finest tooth brush bristle but are an open invitation to the bacteria and acids that cause tooth decay. Highly effective in preventing decay, sealants are a simple procedure in which a tooth-colored plastic “coating” is painted onto the surface of the tooth. This effectively “seals” the deep grooves and pits acting as a barrier, protecting enamel from plaque and acids.

Easy to apply, and time tested over decades, sealants take only a few minutes to coat each tooth. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and can last several years before a reapplication is needed. Children and adults can benefit from sealants in the fight against tooth decay.