Sealants are recommended for children’s permanent molars.

The most common area for children to develop tooth decay is on their permanent molar teeth. Molars typically have deep grooves and pits where food and bacteria can collect and create cavities. Sealants are tooth-shaded materials that are bonded to the chewing surfaces of the molar teeth. The sealant acts as a physical barrier, blocking out bacteria and food and helping to prevent decay. The application of a sealant is a non-invasive procedure and well tolerated by most children. Pediatric dentists recommend sealants for children when they erupt their permanent first molars (around age 6) and their permanent second molars (around age 12).