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 What is a dental sealant?
A dental sealant
is a plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back
teeth. Grooves in these teeth are so narrow that a toothbrush
cannot fit into the spaces to remove plaque (what is plaque?).
Dental sealants prevent dental decay in the grooves.
 Why are they important?
Sealants can provide 100%
protection from dental decay or "cavities" on the chewing surface.
Research has
shown that when placed over very minimal dental decay, the decay
will no longer progress.
Who should get sealants?
Children should receive sealants on permanent molars as soon
as they erupt (about ages 6 and 12 years).
If a tooth
already has a filling, then it does not get a dental sealant.
 How are sealants applied?
First - The tooth is etched
with a mild acid to create retention for the sealant, then
rinsed
and air dried.
Second - The liquid sealant is painted into the grooves of
the teeth.
Third - A high intensity light is used to activate the liquid
plastic to harden.
 Are they safe?
Sealants are simple, painless, and require no drilling.
 How long do they last?
While they may last up to 10 years, 2 to 4 years
is a more reasonable estimate. Sealants can be highly effective
in protection against cavities provided the sealant is continuously
monitored by a dentist. Sealants should be checked by a dentist
during regular check ups and if needed they can be re-applied.
 Why aren't sealants used on all
teeth?
The liquid plastic is designed to flow into and fill the pits
and grooves of the teeth. The plastic does not work on the smooth
surfaces of the teeth, like the fronts and backs and sides of
the teeth.
 How much do they cost?
Treatment is cost effective because sealing a tooth costs less
than filling one. As a parent, check with your dentist about
specific costs.
What else can parents do to prevent
cavities?
Encourage your child to brush and floss every day.
Use fluoride toothpaste. Ask your dentist about
fluoridated water and fluoride mouth rinses. Take your child
to the dentist for regular check-ups. Give your child healthy
foods and avoid candy and foods with lots of sugar.
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Teachers & Students
Lesson Plans: Teach
students about sealants and the importance of them. Lots of
hands-on activities, all linked to the SC Health Education Standards
developed by the State Department of Education.
Pre-school
Second
Grade
Seventh
Grade
Fun Sites:
Colgate
Kids World
How Are Sealants Applied? (Video)
Web sites: Important
online resources
Copyright 2004
Medical University of South Carolina
All rights reserved
Thanks
to:
MUSC
Dental Public Health Class
Spring 2002
Department of Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics
SC DHEC
SC State Department of Education
Developer:
MUSC Ed Tech Lab
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