Dental sealants are placed on the biting surface of permanent molars to protect the teeth from getting cavities. It’s a routine procedure your child’s dentist will recommend when the time is right. La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry in Wisconsin offers sealants and other preventive services to protect your kid’s teeth from decay. Here, they help you understand the importance of sealants.

Why Molars Need Extra Protection

The chewing surface of the molars is rough and uneven because it has many pits and groves. This makes it more difficult to clean the tooth’s surface with a brush, especially for children who may not use the right technique. Consequently, it’s more likely for food particles to get stuck on molars. Pediatric dentists recommend sealants for children because they keep germs away from the tooth.

When to Get Them

The first permanent molars come in between the age of 5 and 7. They’re often called the six-year molars. The second set of permanent molars makes its appearance between the ages of 11 and 14. They’re called the 12-year molars, and sealants are placed as soon as those teeth have fully come in.

How the Process Works

Placing sealants is a relatively simple process. First, the tooth is cleaned and dried. Then, a solution is added to the surface to make it rough. This helps the sealant stick to the tooth. After the tooth is rinsed and dried again, the sealant is placed. It’s liquid, but it hardens within seconds.

When you take your child for their biannual checkup, a pediatric dentist will let you know when it’s time for sealants. La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry always takes time to educate parents on cavity prevention. Together, they will help your child develop good oral hygiene habits to prevent tooth decay. Call (608) 782-4054 to make an appointment today.