A dental sealant is a protective, plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to help prevent cavities.

Sealants provide a physical barrier so that cavity-causing plaque and bacteria can’t invade the tiny grooves. They protect the chewing surface of teeth but do not protect areas on the side of the teeth or in between the teeth.

The grooves in the surface are extremely difficult to keep clean because toothbrush bristles are often too large and food and bacteria build up in these little spaces placing your child at risk for cavities.