When Should My Child Get Dental Sealants Placed?

At Reef Kids Dental, we are proponents of preventive care rather than treating dental problems after they develop. Our preventive services, such as dental sealants, can help keep cavities at bay and keep your little one’s smile healthy and strong. Our experienced pediatric dentist and team are all about laying the foundation for lifelong oral health.

What Are Dental Sealants?

The back permanent teeth, known as the premolars and molars, have pits and crevices on their chewing surfaces that tend to trap food debris and plaque, which is why they are prone to developing cavities. Dental sealants are protective coatings that smooth out these surfaces and seal out food particles and harmful bacteria, helping reduce the risk of cavities.

When Is the Best Time to Have Dental Sealants Placed?

We typically don’t place sealants on baby teeth unless clearly indicated. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends sealing the permanent premolars and molars as soon as they come in, typically around age 6 for the first set and age 12 for the second set. Sealing these teeth as they come in is one of the best ways to keep them cavity-free right from the start.

But what if you’ve missed the 6 or 12-year mark? As long as the teeth are cavity-free, it’s never too late to have them sealed. In fact, even teens and adults with deep grooves or a higher risk of tooth decay may benefit from dental sealants.

How Are Dental Sealants Applied?

Placing dental sealants is a quick and pain-free procedure, typically taking a few minutes per tooth to complete. After cleaning and drying your little one’s teeth, we will use a special gel to etch the tooth surfaces, which helps the sealant bond. Next, we’ll paint on the sealant material, which will flow into every pit and crevice, smoothing out the chewing surfaces of your child’s premolars or molars. A special curing light will harden the sealant, creating a protective shield.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Sealants?

Here are some of the benefits of dental sealants:

• Quick and Non-Invasive: The dental sealant application process is quick and painless, providing protection for your child’s smile without numbing or drilling.
• Cavity Prevention: Dental sealants offer excellent protection for your child’s teeth, helping reduce the risk of cavities over time. 
• Filling Deep Grooves: Dental sealants fill those hard-to-clean pits and grooves on the chewing surfaces of your child’s teeth, helping keep bacteria and food debris from building up and making brushing more effective.
• Cost-Effective Care: Preventing decay is often simpler and more affordable than treating it after it develops, making dental sealants an investment in your child’s long-term oral health.
• Long-Lasting: Dental sealants are strong and durable, providing protection for your child’s smile during the most cavity-prone years.

Dental Sealants Near Me in Tampa, FL

If you are ready to protect your child’s smile with dental sealants, contact Reef Kids Dental to schedule a consultation. Our pediatric dentist and kid-friendly team strive to ensure every young patient has a stellar time here at our Tampa practice. We invite you to call our office at (813) 845-8722 to schedule your child’s appointment or request one online today.