sealant

Everyday

1. Sealant is a substance put on a surface or into a gap to stop air, water or dirt getting through. tree →
2. A dental sealant is a thin coating a dentist paints on the back teeth to protect them from decay. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life sealant is used around baths, sinks and windows so water does not leak. In health lessons dentists put sealants on children's teeth to stop cavities. Phrases: «apply sealant», «bathroom sealant», «tooth sealants».

Examples

• Dad put sealant around the edge of the bath. tree →
• The dentist painted a sealant on my back teeth. tree →
• Sealant stops rain from coming in around the window. tree →
• Let the sealant dry for a day. tree →
• Don't touch wet sealant; it's sticky. tree →
• The tyre sealant fixed my puncture. tree →

Note

Countable for kinds (sealants) and uncountable for the material (some sealant). From «seal» (to close tightly). Many sealants have strong chemicals — use them with an adult and good air.