Important Information on Dental Sealants

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• Sealants are dental resins which are applied to the pits and fissures of teeth to prevent dental caries.

• Pits and fissures are grooves in the enamel that do not fuse during development.

• Cavity causing bacteria can accumulate in these pits and fissures.

• These pit and fissures account for more than 2/3 of the total cavities experienced by children.

• A single toothbrush bristle is too large to enter and clean most pits and fissures.

• Sealants act as a physical barrier preventing cavity causing bacteria and dietary sugars from entering the pits and resulting in cavities.

• Sealant retention:  There is a small possibility that some or all sealant can be lost and regular maintenance/touch ups are sometimes required.  They will be evaluated at recall appointments.

• Sealants do NOT prevent caries between teeth!