What are dental sealants?

A dental sealant (also called a pit and fissure sealant) is a plastic, professionally-
applied material that is put on the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent
cavities. Sealants provide a physical barrier so that cavity-causing bacteria
cannot invade the pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth.

Why should my child get dental sealants?

Since the early 1970s, childhood dental caries on smooth tooth surfaces
(those without pits and fissures) has declined markedly because of widespread
exposure to fluorides. By 1986-1987, approximately 90 percent of the decay in
children’s teeth occurred in tooth surfaces with pits and fissures, and almost
two-thirds were found on the chewing surfaces alone. Dental sealants have
been shown to prevent decay on tooth surfaces with pits and fissures.
Sealants have been approved for use for many years and are recommended by
professional health associations and public health agencies.

When should my child get dental sealants?

sealants were applied routinely to susceptible tooth surfaces in conjunction
sealants were applied routinely to susceptible tooth surfaces in conjunction
with the appropriate use of fluoride, most tooth decay in children could be
prevented.
prevented.


Second permanent molars erupt into the mouth at about age 12 years. Pit and
fissure surfaces of these teeth are as susceptible to dental caries as the first
permanent molars of younger children. Therefore, young teens need to receive
dental sealants shortly after the eruption of their second permanent molars.

Are dental sealants just for kids?

The potential to develop pit and fissure decay begins early in life, so children
and teenagers are obvious candidates. But some adults at high risk of decay
can benefit from sealants as well. Your dentist can tell you if you would benefit
from dental sealants.

Do dental sealants replace fluoride?

No. Fluorides, such as those used in community water, toothpaste, gels,
varnish, and mouthrinse also help to prevent decay. Fluoride works best on the
smooth surfaces of teeth. The chewing surfaces on the back teeth, however,
have tiny grooves where decay often begins. Sealants keep cavity-causing
bacteria out of the grooves by covering them with a safe plastic coating.
Sealants and fluorides work together to prevent tooth decay.

Call Our Office Today to Schedule an appointment for your child
(918) 622-3915
Our Office
Located at 9063 East 31st Street
in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Scott W. Wagner, DDS., P.C.                                                        (918) 622-3915
Sealants
Questions - Comments - Suggestions

Should you have questions about any aspect of dental disease or treatment,
or have a specific problem or treatment need, contact us at:
Phone: (918) 622-3915 or  FAX  (918) 622-3922    
E-Mail:
info@scottwagnerdds.com   

Address: 9063 East 31 Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma  74145

COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER: The information provided at this website is advertising material and is for general information purposes only. The material on
this site does not constitute medical advice.  DO NOT copy any items on this site.  Use of any agency logos, forms or there likeness is strictly prohibited.

© Copyright 2009, Scott W. Wagner, DDS, PC.  All Rights Reserved.

Click here to print your health
history if you are new to our
office.

Click here to print your health
history update if you are already
a patient of record.

Click here for financing options
including no interest for up to 24
months.

Click here to complete our
patient survey.