Sealants are a plastic material (composite resin) that fills in the deep grooves on the chewing surface of back teeth, making that tooth surface about half as likely to decay. They are usually indicated for children (in adults these surfaces usually have fillings) when their permanent back teeth erupt (usually starting around age 6). The process involves:

• Cleaning out the grooves on the chewing surface with a brush.
• Placing a cleanser (etchant) in and around the grooves.
• Rinsing off the etchant and thoroughly drying the tooth.
• Placing the sealant material into the grooves and using a bright ultraviolet light to harden the sealant material.