Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Exam Practice 2025 – Complete Preparation Guide

The recommended age to start applying sealants on children is when the first permanent molars erupt, typically around the ages of 6 to 7. This timing is critical because the pits and fissures of these molars are particularly susceptible to decay.

By applying sealants at this stage, practitioners can help protect the teeth from cavities and other dental issues that can arise in the vulnerable early years of dental development. Sealants effectively fill in the grooves and cracks of the teeth, creating a smooth surface that is easier to clean and makes it less likely for food particles and bacteria to accumulate.

Waiting until all permanent teeth are in place or after the age of 10 may leave teeth unprotected during critical periods of vulnerability when they're most at risk for decay. Similarly, applying sealants before the first dental visit does not align with the recommended timing since children typically do not have permanent molars until they reach that specific age.