Is it normal to use gel to place dental sealants damage enamel?

Yes: The chemicals used to prepare the teeth for sealants are often in gel form. And no, sealants do not damage your teeth.

Should not damage: Sealants are a thin flowable resin often placed in the fissures of molar teeth to decrease the probability of decay. The sealants material does have a gel-like consistency until it is cured into a hard material. If they are properly placed they should not damage the enamel of teeth at all.

Gel yes, damage no: Just like when placing a bonded composite filling it is normal to micoscopically etch the enamel with a gel. In fact it is necessary. This allows the sealant to bond onto the tooth. It does not cause any real damage to the tooth as any minerals lost are immediatly picked back up again as soon as saliva touches the tooth. Soda does more damage!

Normal to use gel: It is normal to use a gel prior to placing the sealant to prepare the surface of the tooth for the sealant. The sealant does decrease the risk of developing decay. The sealant will not damage enamel.

What is the gel: The gel is a mild acid that is used to condition the enamel so that the resin sealant can bond (adhere) to the tooth structure. It does not damage the enamel.

Of course: This bonding gel will allow the sealant to bond to the surface of the tooth and protect the surface for a long time.