FISSURE SEALANTS

Fissure sealant is a thin, plastic coating painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth usually the back teeth (the premolars and molars), to prevent tooth decay. The sealant quickly bonds into the depressions and grooves of the teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth. Permanent molars are the teeth most likely to benefit from sealants. First permanent molars usually erupt into the mouth when a child is about 6 years old. Second permanent molars come through at about 12 years of age. A sealant is best applied shortly after teeth erupt, before they have a chance to be affected by decay. If a young child has deep grooves in baby molar teeth, these teeth may also benefit from sealants to avoid decay and dental fillings at an early age. Our dental professional at Sanctuary Lakes Family Dental will advice you whether your child will benefit from fissure sealants at the exam or recall appointment.