Dental Sealants for Children

Dental sealants are a safe, effective, and preventive pediatric dental treatment designed to help protect children’s teeth from cavities. At Golden Kids Dental & Orthodontics, we provide dental sealants for children throughout Lakewood, Arvada, Evergreen, Wheat Ridge, Morrison, West Pleasant View, and surrounding Colorado communities to help keep growing smiles healthy and cavity free.

Sealants are a BPA free protective coating that is gently applied to the chewing surfaces of permanent molars. These back teeth naturally contain deep grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria can become trapped. In many cases, these grooves are so narrow that even toothbrush bristles cannot fully clean them. Dental sealants create a smooth protective barrier over these surfaces, helping prevent tooth decay and cavities before they start.

How Dental Sealants Help Prevent Cavities

The chewing surfaces of molars are among the most common areas for cavities in children and teens. Even with excellent brushing habits, it can be difficult for children to fully clean these areas. Sealants help reduce the risk of decay by sealing out:

• Food particles
• Plaque buildup
• Bacteria
• Acids that contribute to cavities

Dental sealants are one of the most effective preventive dental treatments available for children and are commonly recommended by pediatric dentists as part of long term cavity prevention.

When Should Children Receive Sealants?

Sealants are typically recommended once permanent molars have erupted enough for complete coverage. This usually occurs:

• Around age 6 for the first permanent molars
• Around age 12 for the second permanent molars

Applying sealants early helps protect permanent teeth during the years children are most vulnerable to cavities.

What to Expect During the Sealant Procedure

Applying dental sealants is quick, comfortable, and completely painless. The process generally takes only a few minutes per tooth and does not require numbing or drilling.

During the procedure:

1. The tooth is cleaned and prepared
2. A special solution is applied to help the sealant bond
3. The sealant material is painted onto the chewing surface
4. A curing light hardens the sealant into a protective shield

Children can return to normal eating and activities immediately after treatment.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Dental sealants can last for many years with proper care and regular dental visits. During your child’s routine pediatric dental exams and cleanings, our team will check the condition of the sealants to ensure they remain intact and continue protecting the teeth effectively.

Maintaining Healthy Teeth with Sealants

While dental sealants are highly effective in preventing cavities, they work best when combined with good oral hygiene habits and regular preventive dental care.

To help keep your child’s smile healthy:

• Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste
• Floss or clean between teeth every day
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks
• Maintain a balanced, healthy diet
• Visit the pediatric dentist every 6 months for exams and cleanings