Should Kids Get Dental Sealants? Are They Safe?

Author:

Dr. Tran

Published on

July 1, 2026

Dental sealants are a great way to protect your child against tooth decay. While fluoride and regular dental cleaning can help your child’s front teeth against cavities, the back chewing surfaces of their teeth need a little extra help. Because these surfaces are rougher than other teeth, they allow bacteria and food particles to hide in the crevices, leaving your child’s teeth prone to decay.

With dental sealants, your child's teeth have an extra barrier against decay, saving you dental costs in the long run. Not only are dental sealants entirely safe, but they can help you offset future dental expenses and avoid costly dental problems down the road.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a thin plastic layer covering your child's back molars. Dental sealants for kids are useful as they create a thin barrier between bacteria and plaque build-up, staving off dental decay. Since your child's molars are at risk for cavities, especially when compared with their other teeth (which can be easier to clean and care for), dental sealants are a great option to help stave off tooth decay and save you dental costs.

Thankfully, the thin layer of plastic used in dental sealants is perfectly safe for your child, meaning you can help your child stave off tooth decay without adding any other risks to their dental health. Think of dental sealants as a shield that protects your child against bacteria and cavities!

Dental Sealant Process

To install dental sealants, your child's dentist will clean their back teeth thoroughly and dry the surface. The dentist will check to ensure no food particles or other materials on the tooth. After this, your child's dentist will apply a solution that makes the surface of your child's molar slightly rougher. This makes it much easier for the sealant to adhere to the tooth. Then, using a small brush, they will apply the liquid sealant. This sealant quickly hardens to protect your child's teeth.

In order to avoid bite alignment issues, your child’s dentist will perform a bite alignment check and remove any sealant that interferes with their bite. Once this process is complete, your child is all set. Most children should get sealants as soon as their molars come in, with the first set growing between the ages of 5 and 7 and the second set between 11 and 14. If your child has other teeth with pits and grooves, your dentist may also recommend sealing these teeth.

If you have any questions about dental sealants for kids or would like to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist, reach out to Smile First Pediatric Dentistry at . Our team of family-friendly dentist and hygienists are here to help maintain your child's dental health. No matter what you're looking for, our team can help you and your child care for your dental health. Feel free to call us today to make an appointment.

We look forward to hearing from you.

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