Dental sealants at Gleam Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics provide a simple, effective way to protect children’s teeth from cavities. Applied to the chewing surfaces of molars, sealants create a protective barrier in areas that are especially prone to decay. This
What are Dental Sealants?
Marlton’s Extra Layer of Cavity Protection
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars, where deep grooves and pits can trap food particles and bacteria. Because these areas are difficult to clean thoroughly with a toothbrush alone, molars are especially prone to developing cavities. Sealants act as a barrier, smoothing over these grooves and preventing decay-causing bacteria from settling in. The application process is quick, painless, and does not require any anesthesia or drilling. Sealants are typically applied to permanent molars as soon as they erupt, usually around ages six and twelve, though they can also be used on certain baby teeth for children at higher risk of decay. At Gleam, sealants are considered a simple and effective addition to a child’s overall preventive care plan.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Reduced Risk of Cavities in Molars
Sealants provide a protective barrier over the deep grooves of molars, significantly lowering the risk of decay in these hard-to-clean areas. This targeted protection complements daily brushing and flossing. Over time, this can mean fewer cavities and less need for restorative treatment.
Quick, Painless Application
Sealants are applied in a single visit with no drilling, anesthesia, or discomfort involved. The process is well-tolerated by even young or anxious patients. This makes sealants an easy addition to a routine preventive appointment.
Long-Lasting Protection
With proper care, sealants can last for several years, providing extended protection through the years when a child is most prone to cavities. The team monitors sealants at routine visits to ensure they remain intact. This long-term protection supports healthier teeth well into adolescence.
Did You Know?
Most cavities in children develop on the chewing surfaces of molars, where deep grooves make it difficult to fully remove food particles and plaque, even with regular brushing.
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Why Choose Gleam Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics?
Gleam’s team recommends sealants as part of a comprehensive, personalized preventive care plan, helping protect molars during the years they are most vulnerable to decay.
Board-certified pediatric dentists experienced in preventive care for growing smiles
Members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
Personalized sealant recommendations based on each child’s individual risk factors
The Sealant Application Process
1
Cleaning and Preparation
The tooth surface is thoroughly cleaned and dried to ensure the sealant bonds properly. This step is quick and does not require any anesthesia. The team keeps the process comfortable for young patients throughout.
2
Application
A liquid sealant is painted onto the grooves of the molar, where it flows into the deep pits and fissures. A special light may be used to help harden the sealant quickly. The entire process typically takes just a few minutes per tooth.
3
Final Check
The dentist checks the sealant to ensure it is properly bonded and that the child’s bite feels comfortable. Sealants are reviewed at future visits to confirm they remain intact. Reapplication may be recommended over time if any wear is noted.
Key Findings
Most childhood cavities develop on the chewing surfaces of molars, where sealants provide targeted protection.
Sealants are typically applied to permanent molars around ages six and twelve.
The sealant application process is quick, painless, and does not require anesthesia or drilling.
With proper care, sealants can last for several years.
Sealants are monitored at routine visits and can be reapplied if needed.
Sealants complement daily brushing and flossing as part of a comprehensive preventive care plan.
“Sealants are one of the easiest ways to protect a child’s molars during the years they need it most.”
— Dr. Krishna Patel
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Why Sealants Matter at Gleam
Percentage-based data on cavity risk and sealant coverage
Where Decay Starts
90
Coverage Gap
43
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| Measure | Data With Source | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Where Decay Starts | About 90% of cavities in permanent teeth occur in the deep grooves of the molars (CDC). | These grooves are hard to fully clean with a toothbrush alone, which is exactly the surface a sealant is designed to cover. |
| Coverage Gap | Only about 43% of children ages 6 to 11 have dental sealants (CDC), meaning 57% are still unprotected. | Sealants can prevent 80% of cavities in the molars they cover, making this one of the highest-impact, lowest-effort protections a child can get. |
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
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Questions Marlton Parents Ask About Pediatric Dental Care
At what age should my child get sealants?
Sealants are typically recommended for permanent molars as soon as they erupt, usually around ages six and twelve.
Does getting a sealant hurt?
No. The application process is quick and painless and does not require anesthesia or drilling.
How long do dental sealants last?
With proper care, sealants can last for several years, though the team monitors them at routine visits and can reapply them if needed.
Can baby teeth get sealants too?
In some cases, sealants may be recommended for baby teeth in children at higher risk of decay. The dentist can determine if this is appropriate for your child.
Do sealants replace the need for regular brushing?
No. Sealants are meant to complement, not replace, regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits.