Which teeth are suitable for sealants?
Permanent molars are the most likely to benefit from sealant application. First molars usually come into the mouth when a child is about 6 years of age. Second molars appear at about age 12. It is best if the sealant is applied soon after the molars have erupted, before the teeth have a chance to decay. For that reason, children between the ages of 5 and 15 benefit most from sealants. • Should sealants also be put on baby teeth? Your dentist might think it is a good idea, especially if your child’s baby teeth have deep pits and grooves. Baby teeth play an important role in holding the correct spacing for permanent teeth — so it is important to keep baby teeth healthy so they don’t fall out early. • How are sealants applied? Applying sealants does not require drilling or removing tooth structure. It is an easy three-step process: A dentist or dental hygienist cleans the tooth with a special toothpaste. A special cleansing liquid, on a tiny piece of cotton, is rubbed gently on the tooth
