Fissure sealants: a raincoat for your child's back teeth
Most cavities in school-age children start in the deep grooves of the back teeth. Sealants close those grooves — painlessly.
Back teeth have deep, narrow grooves on their chewing surfaces — often narrower than a single toothbrush bristle. Food and plaque settle in, and that is where most cavities in school-age children begin.
What a sealant is
A sealant is a thin, tooth-coloured coating painted into the grooves and hardened with a light. It turns a deep trap into a smooth surface that is easy to brush.
When to get them
- On the first permanent molars when they are fully through — usually around age 6 to 7.
- On the second permanent molars around age 11 to 13.
- Sometimes on baby molars, if a child is at high risk.
What it feels like
No injections and no drilling. The tooth is cleaned, dried, painted and set with a blue light — a few minutes per tooth. Most children find it easy.
Sealants protect the grooves; fluoride toothpaste protects the smooth surfaces. Children need both.
The dentist checks sealants at each visit and touches them up if a piece wears away.
Make brushing predictable at home
A brushing calendar, a 2-minute spell timer, streaks and awards for kids — free, no sign-up.
General information for healthy children. It does not replace an examination by a dentist.