How Dental Sealants Protect Your Child's Oral Health

Tooth decay is the most chronic disease of childhood, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Over 45% of U.S. children experience cavities — or tooth decay — by age 19. 

Children with poor oral health are more likely to experience dental pain, miss school, and suffer dental problems as adults. 

The good news is that childhood dental health problems are entirely preventable. Dental sealants are one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities and decay.

Every February, the American Dental Association celebrates National Children’s Dental Health Month, which makes this month’s blog an ideal opportunity to break down the benefits of easy, affordable, and pain-free dental sealants.

Here’s what board-certified dentist Dr. Charley Cheney of Fayette Dental Group wants parents in and around Fayette County, Georgia, to know about this essential tool.

Sealants 101 

Sealants are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of your child’s molars and premolars, shielding these surfaces from harmful, cavity-causing bacteria. 

Most cavities occur in the molars. Sealants protect molars by filling the crevices and the grooves where food particles build up and are harder to reach, even with diligent brushing. 

Once in place, dental sealants can last up to 10 years. 

When should your child get sealants?

An ideal time to bring your child in for sealants is when their first molars erupt, usually around the age of 6. Cavities can develop as soon as that first tooth appears. 

Most children get their second set of molars by age 12. At that point, you may choose to have sealants reapplied.

Sealants are among the most popular preventive dentistry treatments. In the United States, about 42% of children ages 6-11 and 48% of adolescents ages 12-19 have dental sealants.

Adults who want to protect their molars against tooth decay can also benefit from sealants. 

What to expect when getting sealants

Sealants are painlessly applied within minutes. Dr. Cheney uses a small brush to paint a special solution on the molar, coating the tooth's chewing surface. The solution is then dried with a special light. 

How effective are sealants at preventing cavities? 

Dental sealants can prevent 80% of the cavities on the back teeth, where the majority of cavities occur. 

To learn more about sealants or to book a visit for you or your child, call the Fayette Dental Group office in Fayetteville, Georgia, at 770-683-2000 or request an appointment online today.