1. What are sealants?
Sealants are thin protective coatings made from a special low-viscosity resin material, applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth, mainly the molars and premolars. These surfaces have deep pits and grooves where food and bacteria often accumulate.
Sealants cover these grooves, preventing bacteria from accumulating and tooth decay from developing. They are transparent or white and almost invisible, making them discreet in appearance. Applying them is a quick, painless and highly effective procedure that helps protect the teeth over the long term.
2. Why are sealants important for children?
Children are particularly vulnerable to tooth decay because their eating habits and difficulties in maintaining proper oral hygiene often lead to bacterial build-up. Sealants act as a shield, protecting newly erupted permanent teeth from decay, especially during the first years after they erupt, when they are more vulnerable.
Applying sealants is particularly important on permanent back teeth (molars), which erupt at around 6–12 years of age. This is a critical period for protecting the teeth, as children often eat sweets and snacks that increase the risk of decay. Sealants significantly reduce the likelihood of problems, saving the time, cost and discomfort of more invasive treatments such as fillings.
Table: Sealant (prevention) vs filling (treatment)
| Feature | Sealant (preventive coating) | Filling (restoration) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Prevent decay before the tooth is damaged | Repair a decayed tooth |
| Pain | Completely painless | May require anaesthesia |
| Drilling | No—the tooth remains intact | Yes—the damaged part is removed |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
3. Which teeth are sealants applied to?
Sealants are mainly applied to the chewing surfaces of permanent molars and premolars: the back teeth used for chewing. These teeth have deep grooves that cannot be cleaned effectively by brushing, making them prone to decay.
Sealants are most effective when applied shortly after the permanent teeth erupt, at around 6–12 years of age. In some cases, they may also be recommended for primary teeth if there is a higher risk of decay. This preventive intervention helps protect the most vulnerable teeth and maintain their health during critical stages of development.
4. How are sealants applied?
Applying sealants is a simple, painless and quick procedure carried out at the practice. A series of steps is followed to ensure effective and lasting protection:
- Cleaning the teeth: The paediatric dentist thoroughly cleans the chewing surfaces to remove any food debris or plaque.
- Preparing the surface: A special solution is applied to prepare the tooth and create a rough surface that helps the sealant adhere more effectively.
- Applying the sealant: The sealant is carefully placed in the tooth’s chewing grooves, covering the areas where bacteria are most likely to accumulate.
- Hardening: With the help of a special blue light, the sealant hardens (polymerises) within seconds, creating a durable protective shield.
The process takes only a few minutes for each tooth and does not require anaesthesia, making it ideal for children.
5. How long do sealants last?
Sealants are durable and can protect teeth for several years, usually 5–10 years, depending on dental care and use. Regular dental examinations are important, however, so that their condition can be checked.
Over time, sealants may wear due to the pressure of chewing. If necessary, the paediatric dentist can easily replace or top them up, ensuring continuous protection. Proper oral hygiene and avoiding hard foods, such as ice cubes or hard sweets, help them last longer.
6. Our approach at our dental practice for children in Glyfada
At our practice, we place great importance on sealants as a preventive method for maintaining children’s oral health. Before application, we carefully assess each child’s teeth and oral hygiene to make sure that the treatment is necessary and appropriate.
We explain the process and benefits of sealants to parents so that they feel fully informed and confident in their choice. We also teach children and parents how to care for the teeth correctly, reinforcing the importance of prevention in maintaining oral health.
We use high-quality materials and modern techniques to apply sealants, ensuring that every child receives the best possible care. Our commitment is to protect children’s smiles in ways that are painless, effective and child-friendly.
8. The role of sealants in preventing tooth decay
Sealants are a simple and effective way to protect children’s teeth from decay. They create a protective barrier that prevents food and bacteria from accumulating on the chewing surfaces, dramatically reducing the need for invasive treatment in the future.
Together with proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the paediatric dentist, sealants help maintain a healthy, bright smile. They are an excellent way to ensure that children’s teeth remain strong and healthy as they grow.
9. Book an appointment with us today
At our practice, prevention is our priority. We offer sealant application as part of the comprehensive care we provide for your children. Our team is here to assess your child’s needs and ensure that they receive the best possible protection.
Call us today to arrange an appointment and learn more about how sealants can protect your child’s teeth from decay. Together, we can help ensure a healthy smile for the future.
