Sealants are a great option for preventing decay in premolar and molar teeth. A sealant is a protective coating that is placed in the grooves of the teeth that protects the enamel from plaque and acids, which can lead to decay.
Sealant placement is a simple procedure that takes the dentist only a few minutes per tooth. The tooth is cleaned with a special “tooth shampoo” that roughens the enamel surface preparing it for the sealant. The resin sealant material is then “painted” onto the tooth, and hardened with a special blue light.
As long as the sealant is intact, the tooth will be protected from decay. Sealants usually last for several years before reapplication is needed.