Informed Consent | Sealants
When the teeth are forming in the embryonic stage they often form with microscopic grooves and fissures between the cusps of the molars. These tiny cracks provide a place for bacteria to live and escape the cleaning action of the toothbrush and mouthwash. In time the acid produced by these bacteria can dissolve enough enamel to create a cavity. Applying sealants is a process where a weak acid is applied to the area of the tooth where the microscopic grooves are which thoroughly cleans the area and slightly etches the enamel. The sealant, which is a polymer, is then applied. It fills and covers the grooves and bonds to the surrounding tooth structure. Although this material is quite strong and durable, it can leak, chip, break, or even fall off if some contamination may have leaked between the etched enamel and sealant. Even under the best conditions most sealants need to be repaired or replaced every 2 – 4 years. In spite of their shortcomings, sealants have been shown to statistically decrease this type of “pit and fissure” decay and are considered one of the most successful preventative treatments dentists can do. Unfortunately, they have not proven to be as successful on primary teeth so they are usually only placed on permanent molars and premolars.
Benefits and alternatives
The proposed treatment has been shown to significantly decrease the occurrence of “pit and fissure” decay on permanent molars and premolars.
Consequences of not performing treatment
This treatment provides one way to give the permanent molars and premolars an added advantage in resisting “pit and fissure” decay. Since it is a preventative treatment, it is difficult to say that there will be an adverse outcome if the treatment is not performed. By signing the consent form, you acknowledge that you have received adequate information about the proposed treatment, that you understand this information and that all of your questions have been answered fully.