







Tooth sealant is a white or clear coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars). Sealants provide a barrier, protecting the teeth against cavities. They are most often applied to children's teeth, as children are more likely to have deep grooves and pits in their molars, which can be difficult to clean. However, adults can also benefit from sealants.
Applying sealants is a quick and easy procedure. First, the teeth are cleaned and dried. A sticky solution is then placed on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. The sealant is then applied, and it hardens within a few minutes. Sealants can last for several years, but it is important to have them checked at regular dental visits.
If you are interested in sealants for your child or yourself, please call our practice to schedule an appointment. Here at The Dentist Cairns Dental Group, we are dedicated to providing the best possible care for our patients.
There are many benefits of dental sealants, including:
Prevention of tooth decay: Dental sealants can prevent up to 80% of cavities in molars.
Easy to apply: Sealants are quick and easy to apply and can be done in just one office visit.
Protection for hard-to-reach areas: Sealants protect the hard-to-reach grooves and depressions in teeth where toothbrush bristles cannot reach.
Safe and effective: Sealants are a safe and effective way to prevent cavities and improve oral health.
If you are concerned about cavities or other dental issues, talk to your dentist about whether dental sealants are right for you.
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. Most tooth decay in children and teenagers occurs on the chewing surfaces where pits and grooves tend to trap food and bacteria. Sealants fill in these pits and grooves so bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay.
Applying sealants is quite simple and may be done by a dental hygienist, therapist or dentist. First, the teeth are cleaned. Then the teeth to be sealed are dabbed with a very mild acid solution similar in strength to vinegar or lemon juice. This roughens the tooth surface slightly so that the sealant will bond to it.
After the tooth is prepared, the sealant is painted onto the tooth. It flows into the pits and grooves and hardens in about 60 seconds. After sealing, bacteria cannot reach the pits and grooves and cause decay. Applying sealants requires no drilling or removal of the tooth surface.
Sealants will not result in any change in bite because they are very thin and only fill the pits and grooves. At first, they may feel somewhat bulky, but a few days of normal chewing will wear the sealants into place.
A sealant application can last as long as five years and often longer. Sealants should be checked regularly and reapplied if they wear off. Because teeth are more likely to decay when they first appear in the mouth, dental sealants are recommended for children and teenagers.
Sealants help to keep teeth healthy by protecting them from decay. Decay destroys parts of the tooth. Each time a tooth is filled or a filling is replaced, more tooth is lost. Using sealants saves time and money and helps to keep teeth healthy before more serious problems occur.
Tooth sealants can be a great way to protect your teeth from cavities, but they’re not right for everyone. Here are some things to consider before getting tooth sealants:
If you’re considering tooth sealants, reach out to our practice. We’ll be happy to answer any of your questions!
ABN 24 935 056 567