Tooth Sealants

Tooth sealants are tooth-colored fillings placed inside the grooves of chewing teeth. The sealants block the pits and grooves of the tooth, blocking the entrance of bacteria.

Our teeth, like the rest of our body, are composed of different parts. The anatomy also varies from one person to another. One of the most important parts of the tooth is the chewing surfaces where we can see some lines, grooves, and pits. Some people have very deep pits and grooves in their teeth making it difficult to clean, therefore creating a favorable environment for the bacteria to grow. This reason makes the pits and grooves of our teeth prone to early decay, however, preventive measures can be done to protect the teeth and delay the decay process.

Dental sealants are preventive measures of dentists. The tooth’s anatomy also becomes shallower after placing the sealant, making it easier for the person to brush his teeth thus preventing the initiation of tooth decay. Some tooth sealants also have fluoride as one of its components therefore making the sealed tooth surfaces more resistant to tooth decay.

The placement of tooth sealants is recommended for children with newly erupted first permanent molars. As the American Dental Association suggests, the placement of tooth sealants on the permanent molars of children as well as teenagers can be beneficial in reducing tooth decay 1. In some instances, tooth sealants need to be reapplied since it can break down due to the normal wear and tear of the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Regular visits to your dentist for a general check-up and for the reassessment of the tooth sealants are necessary to maintain a good oral health.

WRITTEN BY: DR. RICHELLE RAMIREZ