A dental sealant is a common procedure that is often preformed on children or young adults to prevent and or stop a cavity from forming. Sealant procedures are common due to our diet. On average, Americans consume about 130 pounds of sugar daily. The sugar and acid in our diet are is main cause of dental decay. With a sealant procedure, a thin liquid plastic material is applied to the occlusal surfaces of the pre-molars and molars within the grooves and pits of the teeth and hardened with a curing light.

    This material is used to prevent bacteria and pieces of food from entering these grooves and pits, which often results in decay or tooth loss due to poor or inadequate oral hygiene techniques. Sealants are commonly applied to the pre-molars and molars because brushing and flossing alone cannot always remove food particles and plaque. This procedure aids in preventing these vulnerable areas of the mouth from tooth decay.  Although children and young adults are likely candidates, sealants can also be beneficial to adults. Sealants can protect your teeth from decay for up to ten years.