Fissure sealants and fluoride varnish: simple protection for children’s teeth

Most cavities in children start in two places: the deep grooves on the chewing surface of the back teeth, and the spots where plaque sits for a long time. Two simple treatments protect exactly these places.

Fissure sealants

The permanent back teeth (molars) have deep grooves that a toothbrush bristle cannot reach. A sealant is a thin, tooth-coloured coating that flows into these grooves and seals them. The tooth is cleaned and dried, the liquid is applied and hardened with a light. There is no drilling and no injection.

• The first permanent molars usually appear around age 6
• The second permanent molars around age 12
• Sealing them soon after they come through gives the most protection

Sealants are checked at every visit and repaired if a part has worn away.

Fluoride varnish

Fluoride varnish is a sticky layer painted on the teeth in a minute. It slowly releases fluoride that strengthens the enamel and can even stop very early decay (white spots). For children at higher risk, it is usually applied two to four times a year. After varnish, the child should avoid hard food and brushing for a few hours.

Prevention at home still matters most

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste: a smear for under-3s, a pea-sized amount from 3 to 6
• Keep sweets and juice to mealtimes
• No bottle of milk or juice in bed
• First dental visit by the first birthday

See which teeth your child has now and which are coming in our kids’ teeth timeline. Learn more about kids’ dentistry at DR. ELAF in Erbil and book a check-up for your child.