Sealants just make sense! Protect decay-prone back teeth with professional dental services
Lifelong dental care starts at a young age at Los Alamitos Dental Care. Our talented team of six dentists generally recommends that the first visit to our office occur around the age of 2. It is important for us to establish healthy habits. Letting positive behaviors take hold early in life makes it so much easier for them to “stick” later on. Furthermore, it is always preferred to keep teeth intact and smiles looking great rather than be forced to play catch-up years down the road.
Dental sealants are an effective and easy preventative service available to patients in our corner of southern California starting at around the age of six or seven. When these first permanent molars erupt through the gums, we may recommend sealants as a proactive measure. Sealants protect not only the molars but also an appropriate preventative service for the premolars or bicuspids in front of the first molars.
The trouble with back teeth
The reason back teeth need protecting transcends their hard-to-reach locations. Due to their function (grinding down food), premolars and molars feature pits and fissures. These uneven nooks and crannies tend to “trap” food particles. Lingering sugars and starches in our foods and beverages promote the development of tooth decay. These substances combine with harmful oral bacteria. They produce destructive plaque. The acids in plaque erode the hard tissues (teeth). Plaque also releases toxins, which break down the soft tissues (gums) that surround and support the teeth.
Due to their unique features, back teeth are much more susceptible to cavities. As decay progresses, it erodes the tooth structure and produces holes or cavities. In fact, it is estimated that around 90% of all cavities develop in the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. So, it is no surprise that the application of sealants to the back teeth also aligns with these figures; the CDC reports sealants are associated with an 80% reduction in cavities among school-aged children.
The sealants process
The application of the sealant takes just minutes. It can be done painlessly and conveniently from the comfort of our office. In fact, we can apply the sealants during your child’s regular dental check-up. The teeth to be “sealed” are cleaned, dried, and then “conditioned” to ensure the tightest bond between the sealant and the tooth. The sealant itself is formulated from a safe resin or plastic compound. Our dentists brush the sealant on the teeth precisely. Once the sealant has penetrated the grooves and pitted surfaces of the tooth, we use a special tool to harden the liquid. Voila! The sealant is bonded to the teeth and can now seal out all of those nasties, which can threaten the health and beauty of your child’s smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants
What are dental sealants? Why are they recommended for children?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings placed over the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. These back teeth naturally have narrow grooves and tiny crevices where debris can easily collect. As children are still perfecting their brushing skills, these areas are especially vulnerable to plaque buildup and cavities.
At Los Alamitos Dental Care, Dr. Kerry Hahn and the team often recommend sealants when the first permanent molars come in, usually around age 6 or 7. Applying sealants early helps guard healthy teeth against decay before problems begin, supporting strong oral health habits that last into adolescence and adulthood. Early prevention often means fewer fillings and less invasive treatment later on.
Why are molars more prone to cavities than other teeth?
Back teeth are designed for grinding food, which gives them uneven, textured surfaces rather than smooth enamel. Those small ridges and indentations can hold onto food residue and sugars, creating an environment where harmful bacteria thrive and multiply.
When bacteria feed on leftover carbohydrates, they release acids that gradually weaken enamel. Since molars sit farther back in the mouth, they can also be more challenging to clean thoroughly. For these reasons, most cavities develop in these grinding teeth. Sealants help by covering these textured surfaces with a protective layer that reduces the risk of decay in hard-to-reach areas.
How effective are dental sealants in preventing decay?
Sealants are one of the most dependable preventive treatments available for school-aged children. Research shows that protecting molars with sealants dramatically reduces the risk of cavities during the years when children are most cavity-prone.
By smoothing out the tiny grooves on the tooth surface, sealants make it harder for plaque and food particles to settle. When paired with consistent brushing, flossing, balanced nutrition, and routine dental visits, sealants provide meaningful protection that can reduce the need for future restorative treatment.
What happens during the sealant application process?
The sealant procedure is simple and comfortable for children and adults alike. The tooth surface is first prepared to be clean and free of debris. A conditioning material is then placed on the enamel to enhance adhesion. Once the tooth is properly prepared, the sealant material is carefully applied, allowing it to flow into the tooth’s natural grooves.
A specialized light is used to quickly set the material, creating a firm, protective coating. The entire visit is brief, does not involve drilling, and requires no numbing. Patients can return to normal activities immediately after the appointment.
Are dental sealants only for children?
Although sealants are most commonly placed on children’s newly erupted permanent molars, they may also benefit teens and adults who have deep grooves and no existing decay or restorations in those teeth.
Dr. Hahn and the dental team evaluate each patient individually to determine whether sealants would be helpful. Preventive care is not limited by age, and protecting cavity-prone teeth early can support long-term oral health and fewer dental concerns for the entire family.
Oh, and sealants are not just for kids. Call to find out if sealants are appropriate to protect you or your family member’s decay-prone teeth. Our office can be reached at (562) 539-0011 or from this website.
