What are sealants in dental hygiene?

Sealants in dental hygiene are specifically designed as protective coatings applied to the surfaces of teeth, particularly on the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars. They are used to help prevent tooth decay, particularly in children and adolescents who are more susceptible to cavities in these areas due to the deep grooves and pits that can trap food and bacteria.

The application of sealants creates a barrier that blocks food particles and bacteria from settling into these grooves, thereby reducing the risk of cavity formation. Sealants are typically made of a thin plastic material that is painted onto the tooth surface and then hardened, providing a clever preventive measure that complements regular dental hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing.

Understanding the role of sealants emphasizes their preventive nature in dentistry, as opposed to the other options presented, which either describe treatments for existing conditions or orthodontic devices that serve different purposes.