Sealants

Sealants are thin, plastic layers of resin that are placed on the pits, fissures, and grooves of molars to prevent decay on these surfaces. When food is chewed, it can easily get stuck in the grooves of our teeth. Toothbrush bristles are too large to get into these grooves which can cause bacteria to form. Sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of our teeth, locking out any bacteria or food that may jam in the pits and fissures. 

The majority of decay on back teeth starts in the grooves and pits of chewing surfaces, especially during the first few years after their eruption. Sealing these surfaces with composite resins prevents this kind of decay. Sealants can also keep patients from having dental treatment such as fillings, extractions, crowns and root canals performed. Sealants are one of the most effective methods of preventing decay on the surfaces where they are placed. Although it is still a possibility that decay may develop on surfaces in between teeth, sealants significantly reduce the overall chance of having cavities.

On your next dental visit, ask San Marcos CA dentist Dr. Leads how your teeth may benefit from sealants.