Team Whiteman encouraged to 'seal out' tooth decay Published Nov. 10, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. Crystal Jarvis 509th Medical Operations Squadron, registered dental hygienist WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo., -- Cavities remain one of the most common diseases in the children. The Surgeon General's report on oral health indicates that sealants can reduce decay in school children by more than 70 percent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This month, as part Dental Awareness Month, the 509th Medical Operations Squadron highly encourages Team Whiteman to be aware of this preventative measure. Dental sealants are mechanisms that aid in the prevention of tooth decay and are placed on the chewing surfaces of molars to protect the enamel from bacteria that cause cavities. The procedure for placing a sealant is relatively quick and simple and can benefit individuals of all ages, especially children, according to the CDC Web site. What is a sealant? A sealant is a tooth colored resin (plastic material) that is placed on the chewing surfaces of posterior (back) teeth. Why should a sealant be placed? Daily tooth brushing removes plaque from most areas on the teeth; however, toothbrush bristles are too large to fit into the pits and fissures (nooks and crannies) of the chewing surfaces on posterior teeth. Pits and fissures are ideal places for bacteria to create cavities. Having a sealant placed seals the pits and fissures, aiding in the prevention of cavities. Sealants definitely decrease the chance of cavities on certain areas of teeth; however, it is important to remember that proper oral hygiene and proper nutrition still play a huge part in the prevention of cavities. Sealants are relatively simple to apply. There is no need for the tooth to be anesthetized (numb). The surface of the tooth is prepared with a weak acid solution which helps the sealant material bond to the tooth. The sealant material is then applied to the tooth, and cured with a blue light that makes the sealant material set. Sealants that are properly placed can be maintained for years. Occasionally, a sealant may come off and need to be replaced; a dentist can check the retention of a sealant during dental visits. The Whiteman Dental Clinic currently offers sealants to active duty, as prescribed by their dentist. Dental insurance may cover a portion of the cost of sealant placement. Those interested in dental sealants are encouraged to check with their insurance company before having sealants applied, as well as ask their dentist if they or their child would benefit from having sealants placed at their next dental appointment.