Like fluoride, dental sealants can give children a head start on good oral health. Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the grooves on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from tooth decay. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces from tooth decay by keeping bacteria and food particles out of the grooves. Both children and adults can benefit from sealants, but the earlier you get them, the better. Your first molars appear around age 6, and second molars break through around age 12. Most tooth decay in children and teens occurs on these surfaces. Sealing these teeth as soon as they come through can keep them cavity-free from the start.
Ask your dentist if sealants are a good option for you and your family.