Sealant is a plastic coating that covers the grooves on the chewing surface of the molars and premolars. Sealants reduce the chance of getting cavities on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. It is important to understand sealants protect the chewing surfaces of the teeth and not the surfaces between teeth. Kids who have had their teeth sealed can still get cavities on the surfaces between teeth if they do not brush and floss properly. A person who has sealed teeth must also continue to have regular dental examinations. When kids have teeth sealed it is important to understand these sealants must be maintained. Some children bite on ice or hard candy. It is possible that part of a sealant can come off as a result of ice biting. If this occurs the area of the tooth where the sealant came off can become a food trap. Then that portion of the tooth is susceptible to cavity attack.

Sealants are a great aid in the prevention of dental decay, but they must not be abused by the patient and they must be maintained.