Medically Reviewed by Esteem Dental And Orthodontic Team on December 2, 2025
Parents want to protect their children from cavities, but even with normal brushing and flossing, some areas of the teeth remain difficult to clean. The back molars have deep grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria hide, making these teeth particularly vulnerable to decay. Dental sealants add an additional layer of protection that greatly reduces the risk of cavities in these hard-to-reach areas.
At Esteem Dental in Winter Garden and Lake Nona, our pediatric dentists understand the importance of preventive care in maintaining your child’s oral health. We offer pediatric dental services that focus on keeping young smiles healthy and bright. Dental sealants are one of the most effective tools we have to protect children’s teeth from decay, especially during the cavity-prone years.
How Dental Sealants Protect Your Child’s Teeth
Dental sealants are thin, protective layers applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. These plastic-like materials bond into the grooves and depressions of molars, creating a smooth surface that prevents bacteria and food from getting trapped. The application is quick, painless, and completely non-invasive.
The American Dental Association reports that sealants have been shown to reduce the risk of decay by nearly 80% in molars. This highlights why pediatric dentists strongly recommend sealants for children. Dental sealants simplify brushing, offering parents peace of mind about their child’s oral health through a protective barrier.
The Perfect Timing for Dental Sealants
The best time to apply sealants is shortly after permanent molars emerge. The first permanent molars typically appear around age six, while the second set comes in around age twelve. Applying sealants during these windows ensures maximum protection during the years when children are most susceptible to cavities.
However, timing isn’t the only consideration. The teeth must be completely cavity-free before sealant application. Our experienced pediatric team at Esteem Dental carefully examines each tooth to ensure it’s healthy and ready for treatment. This thorough approach helps guarantee the best possible results for your child’s dental health.
Long-lasting Protection That Grows with Your Child
One of the most appealing aspects of dental sealants is their durability. With good care, sealants can last several years, providing ongoing protection throughout your child’s most cavity-prone period. During regular dental checkups, our team monitors the condition of existing sealants and can reapply them if necessary to maintain continuous protection.
The longevity of sealants makes them an excellent investment in your child’s oral health. They continue working 24/7 to prevent cavities, reducing the likelihood of more extensive dental treatments later. This preventive approach saves both time and money while keeping your child comfortable and cavity-free.
Creating Positive Dental Experiences for Young Patients
At Esteem Dental, we believe that early positive experiences at the dentist set the foundation for lifelong oral health habits. Our family practice approach means that children can receive care alongside their parents and siblings, creating a comfortable, familiar environment. We take time to explain procedures like sealant application in age-appropriate terms, helping children understand how we’re helping protect their smiles.
Our pediatric specialists are trained to work with children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. We understand that each child has unique needs and comfort levels, and we adjust our approach accordingly. This personalized care ensures that your child feels safe and confident during their dental visits, making future appointments easier for everyone involved.
Schedule Your Child’s Preventive Care at Esteem Dental
Dental sealants offer excellent protection against cavities for children, especially during their most cavity-prone years. Combined with regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, sealants provide comprehensive protection that can last well into the teenage years. At Esteem Dental, our experienced team makes the sealant application process comfortable and stress-free for both children and parents.
Our Winter Garden and Lake Nona locations offer comprehensive pediatric dental care designed to keep young smiles healthy and bright. From routine cleanings to specialized treatments like dental sealants, we provide the full spectrum of children’s dental services under one roof. Contact us today to schedule your child’s appointment and learn more about how dental sealants can protect their smile.
Dr. Jordan Jones, DDS
Dr. Jordan Jones leads the experienced team at Esteem Dental, providing comprehensive family dental care to the Winter Garden and Lake Nona communities. With a focus on general dentistry, pediatric care, and orthodontics, Dr. Jones combines advanced techniques with a compassionate approach to ensure every patient receives personalized, quality treatment in a comfortable environment.
✓ Medically Reviewed
