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Dental sealants are a preventive measure used in dentistry specifically to protect the surfaces of teeth, particularly molars and premolars, from cavities. They are a thin, protective coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of these teeth, filling in the grooves and pits that can trap food particles and bacteria. By sealing these vulnerable areas, sealants significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay and cavity formation, making them an effective tool in oral health maintenance.

Tooth whitening, gum disease, and tooth eruption issues do not fall under the primary function of dental sealants. Tooth whitening is a cosmetic process aimed at enhancing the appearance of teeth, gum disease is related to the health of the gums rather than the enamel surfaces protected by sealants, and tooth eruption issues pertain to developmental problems regarding when and how teeth emerge in the mouth, which sealants cannot address. Therefore, dental sealants are specifically designed to help prevent cavity formation, and their use is highly recommended for children and adolescents who are at greater risk for tooth decay.