Dental Sealants for Children
Shield your child's teeth from cavities with a proven protective barrier.
Dental sealants are one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities in children. This simple, painless treatment can reduce the risk of decay by up to 80%—protecting teeth during the cavity-prone years.
Sealants act like a raincoat for your child's teeth—creating a smooth, protective barrier over the deep grooves where cavities love to hide.
Why Sealants Work So Well
The Problem: Deep Grooves
The chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars) have deep pits and grooves that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush—even with perfect brushing technique. Food particles and bacteria get stuck in these grooves, leading to cavities.
The Solution: Protective Barrier
Sealants fill in these deep grooves with a thin, clear coating that creates a smooth, easy-to-clean surface. Bacteria and food particles can't get stuck, which means far fewer cavities.
The Results: 80% Fewer Cavities
Studies show that sealants reduce the risk of cavities in molars by nearly 80%. They're especially effective during the cavity-prone years (ages 6-14) when permanent molars are most vulnerable.
When Should My Child Get Sealants?
The best time to apply sealants is as soon as the permanent molars come in, which happens in two stages:
Age 6: First Permanent Molars
The "six-year molars" erupt behind the baby teeth. Sealing them right away protects these teeth during the high-cavity-risk years.
Age 12: Second Permanent Molars
The "twelve-year molars" come in last. Applying sealants when they first emerge gives them the best protection.
Can baby teeth be sealed? Yes! In some cases, we recommend sealing baby molars if a child is at high risk for cavities or has deep grooves that are hard to keep clean.
Quick Facts
- Fast: Takes 10-15 minutes per tooth
- Painless: No drilling or numbing needed
- Durable: Lasts 5-10 years with proper care
- Safe: BPA-free, FDA-approved material
- Cost-effective: Prevents expensive fillings later
- Covered: Most insurance plans cover sealants
The Sealant Process: Simple & Painless
Clean the Tooth
The tooth is thoroughly cleaned and dried to prepare the surface for the sealant.
Prepare the Surface
A mild solution is applied to slightly roughen the tooth surface, which helps the sealant bond securely.
Paint on the Sealant
The liquid sealant is carefully painted into the grooves of the tooth. It flows into all the pits and crevices.
Cure with Light
A special blue light is used for about 20 seconds to harden the sealant, making it strong and durable.
All Done!
Your child can eat and drink normally right away. The sealant is now protecting their tooth from cavities!
Total time per tooth: 10-15 minutes • No shots, no drilling, no pain!
Common Questions About Sealants
Are sealants safe?
Yes! Dental sealants are completely safe and have been used for decades. They are made from a BPA-free resin material that is FDA-approved. The American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry both recommend sealants.
How long do they last?
Sealants typically last 5-10 years with proper care. We check them at every routine checkup and can reapply them if they wear down or chip.
Does insurance cover sealants?
Most dental insurance plans cover sealants for children, usually until age 14-18. Coverage typically includes sealants on permanent molars. We're happy to verify your benefits.
Protect Your Child's Smile with Sealants
Give your child's teeth the best defense against cavities. Sealants are quick, painless, and proven to work.