ADA Accessibility Information
Accessibility
A
A

A
Home › Dental Sealants - A Powerful Tool for Preventing Cavities in Children

Dental Sealants - A Powerful Tool for Preventing Cavities in Children
Posted on 4/1/2025 by NC Pediatric Dentisty
A dentist treating a young girl by applying a dental sealant with a curing light, with both wearing protective glasses in a brightly lit dental office.As a pediatric dentist and member of the American Dental Association, I am passionate about helping children achieve optimal oral health. One of the most effective tools in my arsenal is dental sealants. These thin, protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where cavities are most likely to develop.

What are Dental Sealants?


Dental sealants are made of a plastic-like material that forms a barrier between the tooth enamel and bacteria and food particles. This barrier prevents plaque from accumulating and causing cavities. Sealants are typically applied to the permanent molars and premolars, but they can also be used on baby teeth in certain cases.

How are Dental Sealants Applied?


The application process is quick and painless. First, the teeth are cleaned and dried. Then, a mild acid solution is applied to roughen the tooth surface, which helps the sealant bond to the tooth. The sealant is then painted onto the tooth and hardened with a curing light. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes per tooth.

Benefits of Dental Sealants


Dental sealants offer numerous benefits for children:

•  Cavity Prevention: Sealants can reduce the risk of cavities by up to 80%. This means fewer fillings, less pain, and lower treatment costs.
•  Protection for New Teeth: Permanent molars erupt around age six and are particularly susceptible to cavities. Sealants can protect these new teeth from the start.
•  Durability: Sealants can last for several years, providing long-lasting protection.
•  Cost-Effective: The cost of sealants is typically less than the cost of treating a cavity.

Are Dental Sealants Right for Your Child?


The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that all children receive dental sealants as soon as their permanent molars erupt. However, it is important to talk to your child's dentist to determine if sealants are the right choice for your individual situation.

Conclusion


Dental sealants are a safe, effective, and affordable way to protect your child's teeth from cavities. By investing in sealants, you can give your child a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.

Smiles from ear-to-ear with locations from here-to-here.


Our community of dentistry superheroes prioritizes smiles above all else—theirs AND yours. That’s why we make it easy to find the location that’s right for you. Learn what to expect for your first visit, virtually tour the space, meet the dentists, and discover location-specific specialties and resources below.


Advance Pediatric Dentistry


135 Medical Drive
Advance, NC
(743) 259-8887

Afton Pediatric Dentistry


5641 Poplar Tent Rd. Suite 201
Concord, NC
(980) 291-4013

Caldwell Pediatric Dentistry


210 Willow Street NW
Lenoir, NC
(828) 383-0322

Denver Pediatric Dentistry


275 NC-16 Business Suite 204B
Denver, NC
(980) 303-5083

Dunn Pediatric Dentistry


711 Tilghman Drive
Dunn, NC
(910) 984-0026

Fuquay Pediatric Dentistry


401 Attain Street Suite 111
Fuquay-Varina, NC
(984) 313-4086

Hickory Grove Pediatric Dentistry


5708 North Sharon Amity Rd. Suite 5708a
Charlotte, NC
(980) 369-2014

Huntersville Pediatric Dentistry


9625 Northcross Center Ct. Suite 101
Huntersville, NC
(980) 306-6635

Locust Pediatric Dentistry


236 Market Street Suite 200
Locust, NC
(980) 354-0784

Mebane Pediatric Dentistry


1107 S. Fifth St. # 100
Mebane, NC
(984) 290-5016

Mint Hill Pediatric Dentistry


9055 Cresswind Blvd. Suite 104
Charlotte, NC
(980) 369-2032

Mooresville Pediatric Dentistry


202 Williamson Rd. Suite 200
Mooresville, NC
(980) 455-4053

Salisbury Pediatric Dentistry


140 Mahaley Avenue Suite B
Salisbury, NC
(980) 305-5002

Shelby Pediatric Dentistry


221 Simpson Park Rd.
Shelby, NC
(980) 436-2483

Sherrills Ford Pediatric Dentistry


7856 Village Center N Suite 200
Sherrills Ford, NC
(980) 291-9087

Statesville Pediatric Dentistry


1454 Fern Creek Drive
Statesville, NC
(980) 391-2407





A BETTER DENTAL EXPERIENCE


NC’s Premier network of pediatric dental practices is committed to delivering a full suite of trusted, comfortable, and informative oral care services. With kid-centric spaces and experiences, we teach kids how to care for their smiles.
Copyright © 2024-2025 NC Pediatric Dentistry and WEO Media (Touchpoint Communications LLC). All rights reserved.  Sitemap
About NC Pediatric Dentistry - Expert Kids' Dental Care
NC Pediatric Dentistry offers kid-friendly dental care across NC. We provide fun, safe, and educational experiences for children. Learn more today!
NC Pediatric Dentistry, 202 Williamson Rd. Suite 200, Mooresville, NC 28117 - tbd - ncpediatricdentistry.com - 5/29/2025 - Associated Words: pediatric dentist -