The Tribune

Dr Sparkman Ferguson

A dental sealant acts as a barrier to prevent cavities. It is a plastic material that is applied to the chewing surface of back teeth by your dentist.

Sealants were originally designed for the back teeth of children. They seal out decay and thereby render the mouth “cavity free”. Although they are still highly recommended for all children, adults can receive the same benefit and protection of their teeth by having them placed also.

How are sealants placed?

Placing a sealant does not require a dental injection. An acid etchant is used on the biting surface of a tooth. The etchant is washed off with air/water and then the tooth is dried. The flowable sealant material is then guided into the grooves of the back tooth and light cured for 10-20 seconds.

Where are sealants placed?

Sealants are placed on the biting surfaces of premolar and molar teeth. There is no need for them to be placed on other teeth.

Why are sealants placed only on back teeth?

The back teeth are designed with grooves on the biting surfaces. These grooves are where 99 per cent of cavities get their start in becoming cavities. By placing the sealants in those grooves, food and bacteria cannot invade the grooves. This then reduces the incidence of cavities to zero.

What are the advantages of sealants?

First of all, a sealant is treatment for healthy, caries-free teeth. This is the ultimate protection that can be offered to back teeth thereby preventing cavities.

Secondly, a sealant is “cost effective” when compared to the alternative which is restoring a tooth that has become carious. Thirdly, a sealant is easily placed.

What is the disadvantage of not sealing teeth?

The obvious disadvantage of not placing sealants is that back teeth will be unprotected from cavity formation. It must be emphasised that it is very possible to keep one’s teeth cavity-free without placing sealants. However, this is not realistic for the majority of persons, because most persons are not sufficiently vigilant at the level of cleansing required to prevent disease.

Conclusions

It is surprising that I have never witnessed an adult requesting sealant treatment.

It is my professional opinion, however, that all permanent back teeth should be sealed to prevent cavity formation. This treatment (although not new) does not get sufficient serious consideration by most individuals. This is perhaps due to the fact that persons may be unaware that this treatment is available.

When you see your dentist again, request sealants for your cavity-free back teeth. This is really the height of prevention.