Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings
that are applied
to the pits and fissures
(grooves) on the
chewing surfaces of molar
teeth. Most tooth
decay experienced by
children and
adolescents occurs on these
surfaces. Sealants
prevent dental caries (tooth
decay) by creating
a physical barrier against
bacterial plaque
and food.
PreventingTooth Decay
Dental caries (tooth decay) prevention
in children and
adolescents
involves a range
of population- and
individual-level
strategies that may
include dental
sealants, community
water
fluoridation, topical fluorides
(e.g., fluoride
toothpaste, fluoride
varnish),
antibacterial rinses, education,
and dietary
interventions.
Dental sealants
are an effective
tool in both
preventing caries and
stopping the
progression of early
caries
(noncavitated lesions). Placing
dental sealants on
the chewing
surfaces of molars
with early signs of
decay
significantly lowers the probability
that the decay
will progress,
compared with the
progression for
similar teeth that
have not been
sealed. "is
benefit may last as long
as 5 years read more...
