A thin, plastic coating is painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where there are many small pits and grooves. If not sealed, these areas get filled with food and germs and are difficult to clean with regular brushing. After time, germs in the mouth turn the sugar in food to acid which causes tooth decay or cavities. Cavities on the teeth must be cleaned out with a special drilling device and filled. If not treated, tooth decay can cause pain and often leads to tooth loss.
Sealants are most effective when applied to new molars before cavities have time to develop.
Together with regular brushing, the use of fluorides, and dental checkups, sealants can prevent tooth decay. If you have questions about this location change, please contact the South Austin Community Health Center at 440-9400. The WIC offices will remain open at the 405 West Stassney Lane location. Other neighborhood services at this site have not yet been determined. For more information on connecting routes in your area, call Capital Metro at 474-1200.