What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are plastic caps that are placed on the occlusal (bite) side of the back permanent teeth, i.e. molars and premolars, to help protect them from decay.
Why is dental sealant treatment performed?
The occlusal surfaces of molars and premolars have grooves that make them vulnerable to decay. In addition, these fissures are difficult to clean, as they can be narrower than the bristle of a toothbrush. Thus, plaque buildup in these areas and the acid in the plaque bacteria attack the enamel and facilitate the development of cavities. Dental sealants provide additional protection for the fissured and pitted areas, leaving a smooth surface covering the fissured area.
What does treatment with dental sealants consist of?
First, the tooth surface is cleaned with a paste and a rotating brush. The tooth is then washed with water and dried and then an acid solution is placed on the occlusal area of the cracked tooth for a few seconds before being rinsed.
This creates microscopic areas and a thin surface that is rougher than the surrounding enamel, which can only be seen with a microscope and allows the dental sealant to adhere to the tooth. After the tooth dries again, the dental sealant liquid is placed on the tooth and hardened by a light, or sometimes by a two-component dental sealant that sets without using a light. Once the dental sealant has hardened, it becomes a hard varnish coating, so that it can be chewed with the tooth again.
Care after treatment
The use of fluoride is recommended to protect both the sealant and the rest of the tooth surface from decay. It is also advisable to visit the specialist again if:
- You feel that the bite is not right
- Sealant is lost