Sealants are a clear, acrylic-like material
that helps shield out decay-causing bacteria from the chewing
surfaces of the back teeth. It is recommended that sealants
be applied to a child's primary (baby) molars by th age of three
or four years. Once the six-year molars (the first permanent
back teeth) appear, it is best to apply sealants as soon as
possible. As a child's most cavity-prone years continue until
the mid-teens, the premolars should also be sealed as they appear.
Sealants material bonds to the chewing surface of the back teeth,
forming a protective barrier covering the pits and fissures
(depressions and grooves) of the chewing surfaces. Sealants
are an intermediate preventive step in delaying or preventing
tooth decay on these areas of back teeth.
Fluoride
Fluoride
helps prevent tooth decay by slowing the breakdown of enamel and
speeding up the natural remineralization process. Unfortunately
most people assume that the fluoride they get from their toothpaste
and tap water is adequate for their needs. This is not always the
case.
Fluoride provides the following protection
for you: