Sealants

Preventative sealants are colorless or highly white coatings of material placed on the occipital surfaces of the posterior permanent teeth. Their purpose is to protect the narrow holes and grooves that normally exist in the teeth which, because they cannot be adequately cleaned with brushing, are the areas from which tooth decay usually starts.

• • How do they protect against tooth decay?
  These covers “fill” the holes and grooves of the chewing surface of the teeth so that the food and microbes can no longer be trapped there and create decay. The decay rate can be as high as 75%.
• Which teeth should be protected?

The first permanent molars are usually “most at risk”. They appear at the age of about six years, are the most important teeth in the mouth and show tooth decay of up to 95% if they are not protected. They can also be placed on second molars as well as on any tooth that has holes and grooves and therefore an increased risk of tooth decay.

• How are they placed?

Their placement is easy and painless and requires a visit. The dentist prepares the surface that will receive sealants and then places the material without the need to brush the tooth and without anaesthesia.

• How long do they last?

Research has shown that sealants last for several years and teeth protect effectively as long as they remain in their positions.

• What is their cost?

The cost of sealants is low (usually half of a normal filling). It should be taken into account that this cover ensures a healthy tooth for many years without requiring any other dental work.

• Should these sealants be monitored?

Sometimes they might be detached from the tooth and thus they should be checked by the dentist every 6-8 months and replaced, if necessary. Sealants should be part of an integrated preventive programme and combined with regular fluoride applications to provide even greater protection against caries.