As a parent, ensuring your child has a healthy smile is likely high on your list of priorities. You make sure they brush twice a day, go to regular dental check-ups, and avoid too much sugar. But there’s one simple, preventive treatment that many parents overlook — dental sealants.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made from a safe plastic material. They’re applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars), which are especially prone to cavities. These areas have deep grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria can easily get stuck — and where a toothbrush might not always reach effectively.
The sealant acts as a barrier, “sealing out” plaque, food, and acid that can cause tooth decay.
Why Are Sealants Important for Children?
Cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood. Even with good brushing habits, children are more likely to get cavities in their molars because of how these teeth are shaped. The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that sealants can reduce the risk of decay in molars by nearly 80%.
Applying sealants early — shortly after a child’s permanent molars come in (around ages 6 and 12) — can protect their teeth during the cavity-prone years.
What’s the Process Like?
The process of applying dental sealants is:
- Quick – usually done in a single visit.
- Painless – no drilling or numbing is needed.
- Non-invasive – the tooth structure isn’t altered.
Here’s what typically happens:
- The dentist or hygienist cleans and dries the tooth.
- A special gel is applied to roughen the surface slightly.
- After rinsing and drying again, the sealant is painted onto the tooth.
- A blue curing light may be used to harden the sealant.
- The whole process takes only a few minutes per tooth.
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Sealants can last several years — often up to 5 to 10 — with proper care. During regular check-ups, at Teeth Care Centre Dental Hospital the best dental clinic in Ahmedabad Dr. Pankti Patel will check the sealants and reapply them if necessary.
Are They Safe?
Yes. Dental sealants have been used for decades and are considered safe and effective. Some sealants may contain trace amounts of BPA, but research shows these levels are extremely low and not harmful. The benefits of preventing cavities far outweigh any potential risk.
Should Your Child Get Sealants?
- Most dental professionals recommend sealants for children and teens, especially if:
- They are at high risk for cavities.
- Their molars have deep grooves or fissures.
- They’ve already had a few cavities.
If you’re unsure, talk to the best child dentist in Ahmedabad at Teeth Care Centre Dental Hospital. They can evaluate your child’s teeth and let you know if sealants are a good choice.
The Bottom Line
Dental sealants are a simple, affordable, and highly effective way to protect your child’s teeth. When combined with good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular dental visits, sealants can be a powerful tool in keeping your child’s smile bright and cavity-free.
