Your dentist can give extra protection to your teeth by applying a sealant to the top, or biting, surfaces of your teeth. This slippery plastic coating makes it harder for plaque to stick to the tiny grooves on the biting surfaces of the teeth. It also adds a barrier between your teeth and the decay-causing bacteria that live in plaque. This painless treatment usually lasts for many months, but does not replace your regular routine of brushing and flossing.

Sealants are most effective in reducing cavities in children with newly formed permanent teeth. They can reduce decay in adult teeth, as well. By reducing the need for fillings and more expensive repairs, sealants can also save you money. Ask your dentist if sealants would be appropriate for you and your children.