Dental Sealant

Dental sealant is a thin layer of resin applied to the chewing surface of molars and premolars. It is a preventive treatment that aims to protect the tooth from cavities. This procedure is painless and has a good lifespan.

What is the role of sealant?

The chewing surface of the posterior teeth is naturally dotted with grooves (called pits and fissures). Because the bristles of the toothbrush are often larger than these grooves, it is difficult, if not impossible, to dislodge food particles that infiltrate them. This results in the formation of plaque within these asperities, which contributes to the development of carious lesions.

The application of the sealant evens out the occlusal surface of these teeth. Food debris adheres less to it and this new smooth surface is easier to clean.

Preventive resin restoration (RPR)

Unlike sealant, preventive resin restoration (RPR) is indicated for teeth that have erupted for a longer period of time or have colored or deep grooves. It involves slightly enlarging them in order to clean them and exclude hidden cavities. In addition, unlike sealant, RPR requires an additional bonding step. The latter makes the restoration more resistant than the traditional sealant, but also more complex to execute, especially at a very young age. The dentist will specify the best long-term solution according to the patient’s cooperation.