Ask The Dentist

Question: Can you explain to me what the benefits are of sealants? Are they just for children?Sealants are a plastic-like material that a dentist or hygienist places on your teeth. They are applied in a liquid form and are hardened and bonded to the teeth using a special light.Sealants protect teeth, or more specifically, your back teeth from cavities. Look at the tops of your back teeth in the mirror or feel them with your tongue. You’ll notice that each tooth has indentations. These are called pits and fissures, and they are ideal places for food to become trapped, which can result in decay. This is because it is difficult for toothbrush bristles to reach the deepest parts of these pits and fissures. In fact, no matter how well you may brush, sometimes toothbrush bristles may simply be too wide to clean the tooth completely. Trapped food develops into plaque and can lead to cavities. Also, the deeper into the pits and fissures you go, the thinner the protective outer layer of the tooth, called the enamel, becomes. This is one more reason why pits and fissures should be protected by sealants.Now, feel your front teeth with your tongue. Do you notice how they are much smoother than your back teeth? Because your front teeth do not have any pits and fissures, they do not need sealants.Children routinely receive sealants for several reasons: They are still learning how to brush their teeth correctly and are more prone to pit and fissure cavities. It’s also beneficial for children to have sealants after their permanent teeth come in. It should be noted, however, that sealants do not replace fluoride; these two separate protections work together.It is not as common for adults to routinely have sealants, but occasionally they do receive them. It is usually determined on a case-by-case basis. Adults should speak to their dentist if they have questions about receiving sealants.Sealants generally last from three to seven years, however, they need to be examined at regular dental checkups to make sure they are not chipped, worn, or damaged. If so, more sealant material can be quickly and easily applied on top of the tooth.I recommend that all children get sealants. There is no risk involved in sealing teeth, and the combination of sealants, plus good home care, including regular brushing and flossing, dramatically reduces the chance of cavities.Dr. Todd Belf-Becker is a Massachusetts Dental Society (MDS) member and a general dentist in Revere. His column is provided to The Daily Item by the Massachusetts Dental Society.