What are Sealants and How Do They Work?

A sealant is a clear or tooth colored polish that is painted on the chewing surface of a primary or permanent molar tooth. Sealants create a very thin layer that fills in the crevices and grooves to form a barrier between the food and bacteria found in the mouth. Often times brushing alone is not enough to effectively clean the food and plaque from the grooves in the teeth. The bases of these grooves are often too narrow for the bristles of the toothbrush to reach, making it difficult to remove every bit of food. Sealants are a non-invasive procedure and one of the most effective means to preventing tooth decay.