Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars) to prevent tooth decay. Sealants are typically made of a plastic material and are applied by a dentist or dental hygienist. Once applied, sealants can last for several years, providing ongoing protection against cavities.
To ensure the sealant bonds properly to the tooth, a curing light is used. Curing lights emit a high-intensity beam of light that activates the sealant, causing it to harden and form a strong bond with the tooth's surface. Without the use of a curing light, the sealant would not be able to adhere to the tooth properly and would not provide the desired protection against decay.