Sealants are one of the simplest yet most powerful tools you’ll use to prevent caries in kids. When placed correctly at the right time, they can protect a tooth for years.
This guide breaks down when and how to place sealants with confidence—and why timing matters.
When Should You Place a Sealant?
Ideal Teeth:
- Permanent molars and premolars with deep pits and fissures.
- Newly erupted molars (6‑year molars around age 6, and 12‑year molars around age 12).
Key Timing Tip:
- Place as soon as the occlusal surface is fully erupted enough to isolate.
- Don’t wait for the tooth to “look bad”—sealants are preventive, not restorative.
⚠️ Why Timing Matters
Sealants are most effective when placed soon after eruption.
If you wait several years, bacteria can infiltrate the pits and fissures microscopically, even if no caries is visible. At that point, placing a sealant could unintentionally trap bacteria underneath, essentially “sealing in” the bacteria which can develop to caries. This is why we emphasize early placement—while the grooves are still clean and before demineralization has begun.caries is visible.
At that point, placing a sealant could unintentionally trap bacteria underneath, essentially “sealing in” an early carious process. It is up to doctor preference on when to place sealants but typically 2-3 years after eruption is the upper limit.
How to Place a Sealant (Step by Step)
1. Isolation is Everything
- Use cotton rolls, dry angles, or a rubber dam—whatever keeps the tooth dry.
- Saliva contamination is the most common reason sealants fail.
2. Clean the Tooth Surface
- Pumice with a brush or prophy cup—no fluoride paste (fluoride strengthens the enamel and resists etching immediately after)
- Rinse thoroughly to remove debris.
3. Etch
- Apply 35–37% phosphoric acid gel for 20 seconds on the occlusal surface
- Rinse thoroughly and air‑dry
4. Maintain Dryness
- Re‑isolate if needed. Moisture contamination at this step means starting over.
5. Apply the Sealant
- Use a brush or applicator to flow the sealant into all pits and fissures.
6. Cure
- Light‑cure according to manufacturer instructions (usually 20 seconds).
- Check with your mirror—should look glossy and smooth.
7. Evaluate
- Use an explorer to confirm complete coverage and retention (should be no catches)
- Check occlusion and adjust if necessary.
Final Thought
Sealants are a preventive measure, not a cure. When placed early and properly, they protect the grooves before decay starts, especially if there are deep grooves. Be quick and efficient, short appointments are key for pediatric patients.
Photo by MM Dental
