Pediatric Dental Sealants in Taos, NM

When & Why Dental Sealants Are Recommended

Pediatric dental sealants are a valuable preventive service that helps protect your child’s teeth from cavities. Children often struggle to clean the deep grooves and pits on their back teeth with regular brushing. As a result, these areas can easily trap food and plaque, which leads to decay. Dental sealants create a protective shield over these vulnerable surfaces, reducing your child’s risk of cavities during their formative years.

Dr. Kellie Harris and Dr. Kayci Harris typically recommend sealants as soon as your child’s first permanent molars emerge, usually around age 6. The second set of molars usually appears between ages 11 and 13, and these can also benefit from sealant application. Some children with deep grooves in their baby teeth may be good candidates for sealants even earlier.

The sealant itself is a tooth-colored or clear resin material that is carefully brushed onto the chewing surfaces of the molars. It is then hardened using a special curing light. This process only takes a few minutes per tooth and involves no drilling or discomfort. Once in place, the sealant acts as a barrier that blocks food, bacteria and plaque from accumulating in the tooth’s natural crevices.

Dental sealants are one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities in children. According to research, sealants can reduce the risk of decay in molars by up to 80%. For families focused on preventive care, sealants can be a cost-effective way to avoid the need for future fillings, crowns or more extensive dental work. They also help make brushing more effective, as they smooth out rough surfaces and help prevent plaque buildup.

Sealants are long-lasting but not permanent. They typically provide protection for several years before needing to be reapplied. Our dentists and team will monitor the condition of the sealants during routine exams and reapply them when necessary to maintain full protection.

A Comfortable, Child-Friendly Experience

Because applying dental sealants is a quick and pain-free process, it is ideal for children. It can be done during a regular checkup without any injections or drilling. For many children, it is their first introduction to preventive dental treatment and helps build a positive experience at Northern New Mexico Dental Center.

We welcome you to contact us at 575-751-9661 today to learn more about pediatric dental sealants in Taos, NM, and make your child’s appointment with Dr. Kellie Harris or Dr. Kayci Harris. Our team is here to answer your questions and ensure your child receives gentle, personalized care every step of the way.