1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Dental Care

Glossary Definition of Dental Term - Sealants

by Tammy Davenport
for About.com

Updated: June 6, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Definition: Dental Sealants are a clear and protective coating that is applied to the biting surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant protects the tooth from getting a cavity by shielding against bacteria and plaque. Sealants are most commonly placed on children's permanent teeth because they are more prone to cavities.

* Photo of Dental Sealants

Pronunciation: Seal-ants
Explore Dental Care
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Dental Care
  4. Dental Glossary
  5. S
  6. Sealants - Glossary Definition of Dental Term - Sealants

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.