About 90% of the decay found in
children’s teeth occurs in tooth surfaces with pits and fissures. To solve this
problem, dental sealants were developed to act as a physical barrier so that
cavity-causing bacteria cannot invade the pits and fissures on the chewing
surfaces of back (posterior) teeth.
A sealant is a plastic resin
material that is usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth.
This material is bonded into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of
the chewing surfaces and acts as a barrier, protecting enamel from attack by
plaque and/or acids.
The dentist, hygienist or assistant
cleans and dries the teeth to be treated, then paints a thin layer of liquid
plastic material on the pits and fissures of the tooth. A blue spectrum natural
light is shone on the material for a few seconds to cure the plastic. Some
brands of sealants cure chemically.
After curing, the plastic becomes a
hard, thin layer covering the treated portions of the tooth. Despite the
incredible pressures placed on teeth during chewing each day, dental sealants
often remain effective for five years or longer, although sealants do wear
naturally and should be checked at regular intervals. If sealants wear or
become damaged, they can be repaired or replaced simply by applying new sealant
material to the worn or damaged portions.
Children should receive sealants
shortly after the eruption of their first permanent molars, around age 6 and
again at age 12 when their second molars appear. While the use in children is more prevalent,
sealants can be utilized in treating adults as well.
The average cost of a sealant ranges
from $42 to $48 dollars per tooth. During
your child’s regular dental visits, we will check the condition of the sealants
and reapply them if necessary.
As a final note, the procedure is
absolutely painless. I know a lot of
people still cringe when we talk about dental procedures.
If we can be of service or you have
additional questions, do not hesitate to contact us via email or for a
complimentary initial consult.
Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC
290 Carpenter Drive, 200A
Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328
404-256-3620
