Dear Dr. Beasley;

Do you suggest dental sealants for toddlers?

Sealants are a thin, plastic coating that is painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth (usually the back teeth) to prevent tooth decay. The painted on liquid sealant quickly bonds into the depressions and grooves of each tooth, forming a protective shield over enamel. Children should get sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as teeth come in. This protects the teeth though the cavity prone years of ages six to fourteen. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit sealants. Sealants can protect the teeth from decay for up to ten years, but they need to be checked for chipping or wearing at regular dental checkups.