Dental Sealants

The molars of children are prone to cavities. Molars are vulnerable to decay for two specific reasons. First, they are used to chew and are constantly exposed to food mixed with saliva. Second, they are located in the back of the mouth and are more difficult to clean.

Protect the molars of your children by applying a dental sealant when they are between the ages of 5 and 7. A dental sealant is a thin layer of liquid that hardens and creates a barrier between the teeth and plaque, food particles and bacteria that collect on them and lead to decay.

Molars begin to appear in children between the ages of 5 and 7, with a second set coming in between the ages of 11 and 14. It's best to have a treatment when the molars first come in to ensure those teeth are protected.

The procedure begins when an adhesive is applied to the teeth that are to be treated. The sealant is spread over the adhesive as a liquid. The liquid hardens, creating a protective barrier. Sealants last for about 10 years and can be reapplied if necessary.