Sealants protect your child's teeth from decay and cost less than the fee of filling a cavity. Of all the teeth in a child's mouth, the biting surfaces of the 6 and 12 year molars are at greatest risk for tooth decay. 80% of permanent teeth affected by cavities are found in 25% of 5 to 7 year old children. Of these cavities, occur on biting surfaces. However, any tooth with grooves or pits may benefit from a sealant application. Bacteria and acid build up in the tooth's depressions and create the environment for tooth decay. Sealants are made of clear or shaded plastic and typically can last for many years. Sealants are applied in one visit. The teeth are conditioned for the sealant application and the sealant is painted directly on the chewing surface of the teeth and then hardens. Make sure your child still brushes and flosses daily and keeps their regularly scheduled recare appointments. Sealants can wear or chip and might need to be reapplied to continue to protect your child's teeth.