A dental sealant is a type of plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth in children and young adults to prevent tooth decay. Most of the decay found in school-age children occurs on these surfaces because they have small depressions, called pits and fissures, where germs and food can hide. The sealant acts as a barrier to protect these chewing surfaces. Sealants have been found to be both safe and effective and are an important part of a child's total oral health prevention program.
Sealants are cosmetically pleasing because they are clear or white in color.
The American Dental Association has recommended sealant use since 1972. The American Dental Association recommends dental sealants for all children with newly erupted molars and premolars. Sealants should be applied as soon as these teeth appear in the mouth and before they have a chance to decay. Findings reveal that children who drink fluoridated water and have dental sealants applied to their teeth experience significantly less tooth decay as compared to children who do not have access to these preventive services. Sealants that remain intact on the chewing surfaces of teeth are 100 percent effective in protecting pits and fissures from decay.