If you're like most parents, helping your children avoid cavities is a priority. An application of dental sealants is a simple way to keep tooth decay away from molars. Michael S. Pugh, DMD, your Huntsville, AL, family dentist, answers a few questions about sealants.

Why are sealants needed?

Back teeth contain little grooves and recesses that make it easier to grind food into tiny pieces. Unfortunately, those grooves are often so tiny that they can't be reached by a toothbrush. When plaque builds up in those areas, tooth decay can occur.

What are sealants?

Dental sealants help prevent cavities much the same way that a coat of polyurethane seals and protects wood from damage. They fill in those little grooves and smooth out the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Sealants offer a long-lasting, almost invisible layer of cavity-fighting protection for molars and pre-molars. They are a made of plastic resin, a substance that is not only strong enough to protect teeth, but perfectly safe for your child. Sealants can remain on the teeth for as long as 10 years.

Are sealants just for children?

Sealants are recommended for children because newly erupted molars are initially a little fragile and more susceptible to tooth decay. Sealants provide the protection your child needs to avoid cavities in these important teeth, but anyone of any age can benefit from this treatment. Dental insurance typically covers sealants for children, but not adults.

How are sealants applied?

Before the sealants are applied, an etching solution is placed on the teeth. The solution makes it easier for the liquid sealants to adhere to the teeth. Your dentist uses a small brush to paint sealants on to the chewing surfaces of the molars, and then uses a small blue light to cure the sealants. In just a few minutes, the sealants harden and provide a strong, durable layer of protection for back teeth.

Are you interested in protecting your family's teeth with sealants? Call your Huntsville, AL, family dentist, Michael S. Pugh, DMD, at (256) 536-3386 and make an appointment today.