San Ramon Cosmetic Dentistry Blog | Sean Michael Anderson, D.D.S.

Are you the parent of a child between the ages of 6 thru 14? Are you worried about the amount of sugary foods your child eats? Do you think your child could do a better job with their oral hygiene? If you said yes to any questions, we have one more for you. Do you know what dental sealants are?

A dental sealant is a plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Grooves in these teeth are so narrow that a toothbrush cannot fit into the spaces to remove plaque, which harbors bacteria that lead to cavities. Dental sealants prevent dental decay in the grooves. First permanent molars erupt into the mouth at about age 6 years. Placing sealants on these teeth shortly after they erupt protects them from developing cavities. Second permanent molars erupt into the mouth at about age 12 years. The greatest chance of decay occurs during the first year after the tooth has come in.

A sealant appointment is painless. No atheistic is required at this visit. Applying sealants does not require drilling or removing tooth structure. The process is short and easy. Sealants can be highly effective in protection against cavities provided the sealant is continuously monitored by a dentist. Sealants should be checked by a dentist during regular check-ups.

At your child's next dental check-up, ask if sealants are right for your child.