Pit and Fissure Sealants are used to protect the chewing surfaces of molar teeth from decay.  These surfaces often decay because of the deep pits and grooves where the toothbrush bristles will not reach.

By placing a thin plastic material over the grooves, the sealant keeps plaque and food out of the crevices, reducing the risk of decay

The sealants can be applied soon after the permanent molar teeth erupt, usually between the ages of six and eight and then at twelve years of age.  Kids like it because it is easy and painless.  Sealants are less expensive than fillings and usually last several years.