As a parent, preserving your child’s medical and oral health is an important priority that helps get them off on a happy and healthy start to their life. Most parents invest considerable time and patience teaching their children about the importance of brushing and flossing every single day when their children are little.
As your child ages, their baby teeth are replaced by the permanent adult set that they will have for the rest of their lives. For most children, their first molars tend to emerge around 5 to 7 years old. The second set of molars emerges around 11 to 14 years old. These teeth are sometimes referred to as the 12 year molars.
The molars and premolars sometimes have small pits and fissures as part of the natural contours of the biting surface. These contours can sometimes get food particles and plaque stuck in them, which can easily lead to tooth decay.
Once all of their molars have emerged, your dentist might recommend applying a sealant to the biting surface. The dentist then paints a thin, resin layer on the biting surface of the teeth, creating a protective layer that keeps bacteria from direct exposure to the enamel. Once cured, the sealant material lasts for several years, getting your child a good start on a healthy adult mouth.
If you have any questions about dental sealants, please call us at 202-362-8412 to schedule an appointment.