Children’s 1^st permanent molars erupt around age 6, that’s why we call them the six year molars!  Dr. Chisholm’s daughter, who is six, was ready for her first sealants!    It seems crazy that she is already old enough to have permanent molars!

If you look closely at the biting (occlusal) surface of teeth you will notice that they have many little grooves and pits (fissures and fossas).     Food and bacteria can build up in these crevices and can put the teeth at risk for cavities.   Sealants are a preventive measure designed to protect the surfaces of the teeth where most cavities in children are found.    Sealants, as their name implies, help “seal out” food and plaque and create a surface that is smooth and self-cleansing.

We recommend placing sealants on children’s permanent first and second molars as well as any teeth with deep grooves which are at high risk for cavities.

Sealants can last for many years, especially if they are maintained at your child’s checkup visits.   The procedure is simple, noninvasive and painless.   The tooth is etched (washed), rinsed and dried and the sealant is applied with a small brush that looks like a nail polish brush.   When the grooves are filled it creates a star like pattern on the tooth.   That’s why we often tell the children we are painting a little star on their teeth.

If you have any questions about sealants please talk to any member of our clinical team and they’ll be happy to provide you more information.