Key Takeaways
- Dental sealants are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, to prevent cavities from forming in the deep grooves of these teeth.
- Sealants are usually applied to permanent teeth, but some children may benefit from sealants on their baby molars, depending on their risk of developing cavities.
- A pediatric dentist can assess your child’s teeth and recommend sealants if needed.
A dental sealant is a thin resin coating applied to the chewing surface of a back tooth. It fills the tiny grooves that toothbrush bristles may not reach, which helps prevent food particles and bacteria to collect and cause cavities.
You may have heard of sealants being used on permanent teeth, but they can also protect certain baby teeth. Your pediatric dentist may recommend sealants for your child’s baby molars based on their cavity risk and the shape of their teeth.
Do Baby Teeth Need Dental Sealants?
Although dental sealants are commonly applied to permanent teeth, some children may benefit from having them on their baby molars. Your pediatric dentist may recommend sealants in the following cases:
- Unusually deep grooves and pits. Every child’s teeth are different. If your child has deep grooves and pits on their back baby molars, food particles and bacteria can collect in these areas. Your pediatric dentist may recommend sealants to help protect these surfaces from decay.
- High risk of cavities. Some children are more prone to cavities due to factors such as their dental history, diet, oral hygiene habits, and genetics. If your child has a higher risk of tooth decay, your pediatric dentist may recommend sealants for their baby molars rather than waiting until their permanent molars come in.
Baby molars remain in the mouth for several years, with many not falling out until around ages 9 to 12. During this time, they are exposed to daily chewing, snacks, and sugary drinks. They can also be missed during brushing, particularly when your child is still learning to brush independently. So it’s paramount to keep these teeth protected to help reduce the risk of cavities while they remain in place.
Read more: Why Are Permanent Molars More Prone to Cavities?
Can Cavities Grow Under Dental Sealants?
Unfortunately yes, cavities can still develop under dental sealants, particularly in the following situations:
- Decay present before sealant application. If a tooth already has early decay when the sealant is applied, the decay may continue to progress. Pediatric dentists examine the teeth for signs of decay before placing sealants to help reduce this risk.
- Worn or cracked sealants. Dental sealants can wear down, crack, or chip over time, especially with grinding or habitual chewing on ice and/or gummy snacks. When the sealant becomes damaged or loses its seal, bacteria can reach the tooth groove that was formerly protected and increase the risk of decay. Keep up with your kid’s regular dental checkups to allow your child’s dentist to check the sealants and repair or replace them if needed.
Read more: Dental Sealants: How They Can Benefit Your Child’s Oral Health
Start Dental Visits Early
We recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. These early visits give your dentist a chance to examine your child’s teeth, identify deep grooves in the molars, and assess their risk of developing cavities before problems arise.
If your dentist does not recommend sealants for your child’s baby teeth, they may recommend them for their permanent molars instead. Permanent molars are good candidates for sealants soon after they erupt, before being exposed to elements that can cause cavities.
If you’re unsure whether dental sealants are right for your child or are hearing about them for the first time, our pediatric dental specialists in Lafayette, LA, are here to answer your questions and help you explore your options. We also offer a range of dental services for children, including preventive, restorative, and specialized care for families throughout the Acadiana area.
Call our office or request an appointment online to schedule a visit. We’ll discuss the care that best suits your child’s needs.