When it comes to protecting your childs teeth from cavities, brushing and flossing are always the first line of defense. But sometimes, even with excellent oral hygiene, certain parts of the mouth are more vulnerable to tooth decay especially the back teeth. This is where dental sealants come in.
At McLevin Dental, parents often ask, Are dental sealants necessary for my child? or How do sealants actually work? If youve ever wondered the same, this guide will help you understand whether dental sealants are a smart choice for your childs smile.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made of tooth-colored or clear material (usually composite resin). They are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth the molars and premolars where grooves and pits are deep and hard to clean with a toothbrush.
These sealants form a shield over the enamel, keeping out food particles, plaque, and bacteria that can lead to cavities.
Why Are Back Teeth at Higher Risk?
The back teeth have natural grooves and ridges that are perfect hiding spots for food and bacteria. Even the best toothbrushes sometimes struggle to clean these areas thoroughly, especially in children who are still mastering brushing techniques.
This is why molars are often the first place cavities form in kids.
How Do Dental Sealants Work?
The process is quick, painless, and non-invasive:
Cleaning: The tooth is cleaned thoroughly to remove any plaque or debris.
Preparation: The surface is treated with a special solution to help the sealant bond properly.
Application: The sealant is painted onto the tooths surface, flowing into the grooves.
Curing: A special blue light is used to harden the sealant.
Once applied, the sealant forms a smooth surface over the tooth that keeps out bacteria and food particles.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are most commonly recommended for:
Children ages 6 to 14, when permanent molars and premolars are coming in.
Kids with deep grooves in their teeth that are prone to trapping food.
Children who already have a history of cavities.
Kids with difficulty maintaining consistent oral hygiene habits.
Sealants can also be applied to baby teeth if those teeth have deep grooves and are at risk of decay.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Sealants can protect teeth for 5 to 10 years, but they should be checked during regular dental check-ups. Over time, they may wear down or chip, and if that happens, they can be easily repaired or replaced.
Benefits of Dental Sealants for Kids
Cavity prevention: Reduces the risk of cavities in molars by up to 80%.
Quick and painless: No drilling, no needles, no discomfort.
Cost-effective: Preventing cavities saves money compared to filling cavities later.
Safe and effective: The materials used are safe and widely approved by dental associations worldwide.
Are Sealants Safe?
Yes. Dental sealants are considered safe by the Canadian Dental Association and other global health organizations. The amount of any material released from sealants is extremely small and poses no risk to health.
Do Sealants Replace Brushing and Flossing?
Absolutely not. While sealants provide excellent protection for the chewing surfaces of back teeth, brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing are still essential. Sealants are an additional layer of protection not a substitute for good oral hygiene.
Signs Your Child May Benefit From Sealants
Difficulty cleaning back teeth effectively
History of cavities, especially in molars
Visible deep grooves or pits in the chewing surfaces
Age 6 or older with new permanent molars erupting
What Happens If You Skip Sealants?
Without sealants, back teeth remain vulnerable to:
Food getting stuck in deep grooves
Plaque buildup in hard-to-clean areas
Faster decay in molars, leading to fillings, crowns, or even extractions
Why Choose McLevin Dental for Dental Sealants?
At McLevin Dental, we specialize in preventive dentistry for children. Our caring dental team uses gentle techniques and child-friendly explanations to ensure your child feels comfortable and at ease during the sealant application process.
We believe that prevention is always better than treatment. Applying sealants is a simple way to protect your childs smile and help avoid unnecessary dental work in the future.
Book Your Childs Sealant Appointment Today
Wondering whether dental sealants are right for your child? Lets talk about it. Contact McLevin Dental today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced dental team will examine your childs teeth and provide personalized advice on keeping their smile healthy, strong, and cavity-free.