Children’s sealants are a protective, thin plastic material that your dental assistant paints on to the chewing surfaces of the permanent molars to prevent tooth decay. The sealant material bonds to the tooth enamel, creating a clear or tooth-colored layer over the back teeth that essentially seals the crevices and grooves found naturally on molars.

The chewing surface of children’s teeth are the most susceptible to cavities.  This is caused by food and plaque accumulating in the tiny grooves of the chewing surfaces.  Even if your child brushes and flosses carefully, it can be nearly impossible to keep the grooves and crevices clean.  Getting this simple procedure done will help “seal out” food and plaque, thus reducing the risk of decay.

The main benefits of children’s sealants are protection from decay and cavities, which of course contributes to better oral hygiene. The initial investment in dental sealants is likely to pay off in the long run, as care for your children’s dental problems later as a result of tooth decay can be much more costly. Not to mention the reduced likelihood of your child suffering from oral pain, which will allow them to focus better on schoolwork, get better sleep, and enjoy extracurriculars even more.

It is recommended by many dentists to consider children’s sealants as soon as their permanent molars come in. This will ensure that tooth decay will be stopped as early as possible. Dental sealants can last between 5-10 years if applied and cared for properly. Regular checkups can facilitate continual maintenance of the sealants so that any wear and tear or cracks can be repaired as soon as possible.

Call one of our offices or stop in to schedule an appointment for your child to set them up for a lifetime of great oral health.