What Are Dental Sealants and How Do They Work?
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—most commonly the molars and premolars. These areas are prone to decay due to their deep grooves and pits that can trap food and bacteria. Sealants are made from a safe plastic resin material that bonds to the enamel. Once applied, they act as a shield against plaque and acids. While not a substitute for brushing and flossing, sealants provide an extra layer of defense against cavities.
How Do Dental Sealants Work?
Sealants create a smooth, protective barrier over the uneven surfaces of molars. This barrier prevents food particles, plaque, and bacteria from settling into the crevices of the teeth. The material used hardens quickly—often with the help of a curing light—and becomes a durable guard that can last for several years. Because molars are harder to clean thoroughly, especially for children, sealants are particularly effective in cavity prevention. They reduce the risk of tooth decay by nearly 80% in molars, according to the CDC.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Sealants are especially recommended for children and teenagers, as they are more likely to develop decay in the grooves of their molars. Ideally, sealants should be applied shortly after permanent molars come in, around ages 6 and 12. However, adults without cavities or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants. Patients with a history of cavities or deep grooves in their teeth may be prime candidates. At WOW Dental, we recommend sealants based on individual risk assessments and oral health history.
The Application Process
The process of applying dental sealants is simple, quick, and completely painless. First, the dentist thoroughly cleans and dries the teeth. Then, a special acidic solution is applied to slightly roughen the surface—this helps the sealant bond better. After rinsing and drying the tooth again, the sealant is brushed on and hardened using a special curing light. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes per tooth and doesn’t require any numbing. Patients can eat and drink normally soon afterward.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Sealants are one of the most effective and affordable ways to prevent tooth decay. They save time, discomfort, and money by reducing the likelihood of needing fillings or crowns later on. For families, sealants are a wise investment in children's dental health during their most cavity-prone years. They’re also safe, with the materials approved by the American Dental Association and widely used in pediatric dentistry. With proper care, sealants can protect teeth for up to 10 years, although regular dental checkups are important to monitor wear.
Common Myths and Misunderstandings
Some people worry that sealants contain harmful chemicals like BPA, but studies show that the exposure is extremely low—lower than everyday contact with air or water. Others believe that sealants are only for kids, but adults can absolutely benefit if they have healthy molars without prior decay. There's also a misconception that sealants eliminate the need for brushing or flossing—this is false. Sealants are a supplement, not a replacement, for good oral hygiene. At WOW Dental, we ensure patients fully understand the benefits and limitations of sealants before recommending them. To schedule an appointment, contact us here.
