At What Age Should Children Get Dental Sealants?
Tooth decay is one of the most common childhood dental problems, but the good news is—it’s largely preventable. One of the most effective ways to protect your child’s teeth is through dental sealant treatment , a simple and painless procedure that helps prevent cavities. Sealants act as a protective barrier, covering the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars) where decay is most likely to occur. Ideal Age for Dental Sealants Dental professionals recommend that children receive sealants as soon as their permanent molars come in. This usually occurs around age 6 for the first set of molars, and around age 12 for the second set. Applying sealants early, right after the teeth erupt, ensures they are protected before cavities have a chance to form. In some cases, a dentist may also recommend sealants for baby teeth if a child is particularly cavity-prone or has deep grooves in their teeth. Why So Early? Newly erupted teeth are more vulnerable to decay. Children may also struggle ...