Therefore, young teens need to receive dental sealants shortly after the eruption of their second permanent molars. The potential to develop pit and fissure decay begins early in life, so children and teenagers are obvious candidates. But some adults at high risk of decay can benefit from sealants as well. Your dentist can tell you if you would benefit from dental sealants. Fluorides, such as those used in community water, toothpaste, gels, varnish, and mouthrinse also help to prevent decay.
Fluoride works best on the smooth surfaces of teeth.
The chewing surfaces on the back teeth, however, have tiny grooves where decay often begins. Sealants keep cavity-causing bacteria out of the grooves by covering them with a safe plastic coating. Sealants and fluorides work together to prevent tooth decay. The information provided on this Web page is general background information and should not be construed as CDC recommended practice or guidelines, except where official recommendation or guideline documents are specifically mentioned.