General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
Around age six, a first permanent molar emerges behind the baby teeth. It does not replace a tooth that has fallen out, so its arrival can go unnoticed. It is already a permanent tooth.
When it erupts, this molar has not completed mineralisation and is vulnerable to decay. Deep grooves can retain debris and be difficult to clean with a toothbrush.
A dentist examines the tooth and assesses decay risk. If grooves are deep, a fissure sealant may be offered: resin protects these hard-to-reach areas. The decision depends on the examination.
Assurance Maladie describes sealing as a painless preventive procedure requiring no anaesthetic. It particularly concerns first molars around six and second molars around twelve, according to decay risk.
This procedure does not remove the need for brushing or follow-up. Around six or seven, children brush under parental supervision, using age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste. The dentist sets the frequency of check-ups.
At the next dental check, ask which teeth are permanent and whether sealing the grooves would be useful. This belongs to the child’s dental care; Mon bilan prévention separately helps adults in eligible age groups discuss their health habits.
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