The chewing surfaces of our back teeth have pits and grooves (fissures). This gives our premolars and molars the ability to grind food for swallowing. But they also can trap food and foster bacterial growth. Which can lead to cavities.
Dental sealants can be an effective way to protect your teeth.
A plastic-like liquid is applied to the most vulnerable chewing surfaces. Both adults and children can benefit. We generally recommend this semi-permanent solution when the first molars appear. Usually around the age of 6. Then when the second molars emerge around age 12.
Granted, sealants are no substitute for regular brushing and flossing. But they can help prevent cavities from forming. A 2012 study suggested that sealants can cut the rate of cavities in half. And when you consider that sealants cost a fraction of what it costs to fill a cavity, you can see why this is a popular choice.
