Sealant Selection

By Tracye A. Moore RDH, MS, EdD

Dental sealants were developed in the 1960s by Michael Buonocore, DDS, and dental scientists at the Eastman Dental Center in Rochester, New York.^1–3 A thin plastic coating of an organic polymer (resin), a sealant is placed into the pits and fissures of newly erupted molar teeth that are susceptible to dental caries.^1–7 This placement acts as a physical barrier, sealing off the pit or fissure from caries-producing oral bacteria, thereby preventing decay.^1–7 Sealants can help shield grooved areas of the tooth where fluoride toothpaste is not as protective. They can reduce caries by approximately 80% in 2 years after initial placement and may remain effective for nearly 5 years.^1,3,6,7 Sealants cost one-third less than a restorative filling and can be placed after an initial assessment verifies no extensive decay is present.^6,7 Some research shows that sealant placement in areas of early decay can help to control and manage caries on occlusal and approximal surfaces.^1,3,6 There are two main types of sealants: resin and glass ionomer cements (GICs).

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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