Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. Concerns about the materials used in this procedure are understandable, especially regarding a child’s health. This article provides an evidence-based look at the safety profile of dental sealants and details what parents can expect from this common preventative treatment. Major health organizations affirm the safety of sealants, making them a highly recommended measure for protecting young teeth.
Understanding Dental Sealants
Sealants function as a physical barrier, smoothing over the deep pits and fissures naturally present on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. These tiny grooves are difficult for toothbrush bristles to reach, trapping food particles and cavity-causing bacteria. By filling these vulnerable areas, the sealant prevents the accumulation of plaque and acid that leads to tooth decay.
Dentists recommend applying sealants shortly after the first permanent molars erupt, typically around age six, and again for the second molars, which appear around age twelve. This timing protects the teeth during the years they are most susceptible to decay.
Safety Scrutiny: Addressing Concerns About Materials
The primary safety concern centers on the materials used in resin-based sealants, specifically the potential for trace amounts of Bisphenol A (BPA) or its derivatives. The main component in many dental resins is Bisphenol A glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA), which is chemically related to BPA. BPA is not an intentionally added ingredient but is a trace component resulting from the manufacturing process.
Rigorous testing by the American Dental Association (ADA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) consistently supports the safety of these materials. The ADA Science Institute found that the average sealant releases an extremely small amount, around 0.09 nanograms of BPA, during the first 24 hours. This minute exposure is far below the safety limits established by regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency.
For instance, the BPA exposure from a sealant is estimated to be less than 0.001% of the daily environmental exposure a child receives from all other sources. Health experts agree that the exposure levels from dental sealants are negligible and pose no known health risk. Many manufacturers now offer sealants labeled as BPA-free to address parental concerns. Dentists can also use precautionary application techniques, such as rinsing the tooth surface after curing, to reduce any minimal trace amounts of released chemicals.
The Dental Sealant Application Process
The procedure for applying dental sealants is simple, quick, and non-invasive, requiring no drilling or anesthesia. The process begins with the dental professional thoroughly cleaning the target tooth to remove plaque or debris. Next, a mild acidic solution, known as an etchant, is applied briefly to slightly roughen the enamel.
This etching creates microscopic pores, which are necessary for the sealant material to securely bond to the tooth structure. After rinsing and drying the tooth, the liquid sealant material is painted directly onto the grooves. The material flows into the deepest depressions and is then hardened using a special curing light, which takes only a few seconds per tooth. The child feels no pain, and the entire process for several teeth is often completed in a single short visit.
Effectiveness, Maintenance, and Longevity
Effectiveness
The protective impact of dental sealants is substantial, providing one of the most effective methods for preventing decay in children. Studies confirm that sealants can reduce the risk of cavities in the molars by approximately 80% for the first two years after application. This high level of protection continues, with sealants remaining effective against 50% of cavities for up to four years.
Longevity
While sealants are durable, they are not permanent and typically last between five and ten years, depending on the material used and the patient’s habits. Resin-based sealants generally offer the longest protection. Other materials, such as glass ionomers, may need reapplication sooner but offer the advantage of fluoride release.
Maintenance
Regular dental check-ups are necessary to monitor the condition of the sealants. The dentist will inspect the sealants for any signs of chipping, wear, or partial loss during routine cleanings. If a sealant is compromised, the material can be easily repaired or reapplied in a quick follow-up procedure. Maintaining the integrity of the sealant is important because a partial loss leaves the deep grooves exposed and vulnerable to decay.