What are they?
A sealant is an epoxy-like material applied to the fissures (grooves) of the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay occurs most often.
The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting the decay prone areas of the back teeth from the acid producing action of bacterial plaque.
Why are they necessary?
The grooves of the chewing surfaces are too small to brush clean. They provide a hiding place for plaque and bacteria. By sealing these grooves, the risk of decay is greatly reduced.
How are they applied?
Without the necessity of any anesthetic, the tooth surface is cleaned and then treated with a special material that allows the sealant to attach to the tooth. The sealant material is applied and hardened by a special light.
Do they need to be re-applied?
Sealants usually last several years before they need to be re-applied for continued protection. Sealants are checked during regular dental visits.
Fees?
Since this is a preventive procedure, it is not covered by many dental insurance policies. If in doubt, please call your insurance company to check, however, we submit all procedures to your insurance company.
What if decay has started in the grooves?
First, the grooves are opened, cleaned and checked. Then a special preventative restoration, a tooth colored bonded material, is placed in the grooves.
These procedures are part of our overall concern for preventive dentistry as we have come to learn that neglect is expensive, but prevention pays. Please feel free to discuss this or any other phase of dentistry with us at any time.
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