When Is The Right Time For Dental Sealants? Explaining The Basics

You may have heard that dental sealants are great for preventing cavities in kids. And that’s true! Sealants are thin layers of resin that are applied directly to the rear teeth. These sealants help prevent food particles, acid, and bacteria from contacting your child’s tooth enamel directly. 

This means that they can prevent cavities from forming, which is beneficial for kids of all ages. Along with fluoride treatments, dental sealants are a very common preventive treatment for kids.

But when is the right time for dental sealants? When are they usually recommended at Green Leaf Dental? Read on and find out.
‍

Sealants Are Usually Applied When The First Molars And Second Molars Erupt

For most kids, dental sealants are applied twice. Your child’s first set of dental sealants will be applied when their first set of molars erupts. This usually happens at the age of 6, though each child is different.

Then, kids will get a second set of dental sealants once they get their second set of molars. These are the last adult teeth to erupt (with the exception of wisdom teeth) and usually emerge between the ages of 11 and 13. 
‍

What Teeth Will Need Dental Sealants? 

Usually, sealants are only applied to the rear molars. This is because these teeth are the most susceptible to cavities. The rear molars naturally have deep grooves and pits, as well as a very large surface area compared to the other teeth.

These features help the molars mash and chew tough food effectively, but also mean they’re more prone to cavities compared to other teeth like the front teeth or premolars. Because of this, treating the molars with sealants usually provides the best protection against cavities for the lowest cost.

However, some kids may also get dental sealants on their premolars, which are the sets of teeth directly in front of the molars. Like the molars, these teeth are larger than the front teeth and can be susceptible to decay in kids who are cavity-prone. 
‍

Some Patients May Need More Frequent Dental Sealant Treatments 

As mentioned, most kids get dental sealants twice. Once when they get their first molars at the age of 6, and again at the age of 11-13 when their second set of molars come out. 

But this isn’t always the case. For example, if your child grinds their teeth, their sealants may wear off more quickly, and they may need to be reapplied every few years. 

This is one of the reasons why regular six-month checkups are important at Green Leaf Dental. Our children's dentist in Seattle will check your child’s oral health and look at their sealants to make sure they’re in great shape. And if the sealant is damaged, it can be replaced right away to protect your child’s teeth. 
‍

Need Dental Sealants For Your Child? Contact Green Leaf Dental Today 

Dental sealants can keep your child’s teeth healthy and prevent decay, which saves you time and money and gives you peace of mind. So if you think your child could benefit from dental sealants in Seattle, don’t wait. Contact us online or give Green Leaf Dental a call at (206) 316-2351. We’re proud to serve patients of all ages in Seward Park, Rainier Valley, Columbia City, and Beacon Hill.