When should sealants be placed according to the guidelines?

Placing sealants as soon as the tooth has erupted and is fully functional is a key step in preventive dental care. This timing is crucial because newly erupted teeth are more susceptible to caries due to the presence of deep pits and fissures that can harbor bacteria and plaque. By applying sealants at this stage, the vulnerable areas are protected from decay before they have a chance to develop any cavities. This proactive measure can significantly reduce the incidence of dental caries in children, particularly in molars, which are often hardest to clean.

Sealants provide a physical barrier that reduces the risk of food and bacteria accumulation in these areas. Additionally, this preventive approach is most effective when teeth are intact and free of decay, as sealants bond best to clean, dry surfaces. Waiting until a child reaches adolescence or until the tooth shows wear would not be as beneficial, as any potential carious activity could already have taken hold by then. Therefore, the best practice is to place sealants promptly after the tooth erupts and is functional.