Sealants are most commonly placed on which type of teeth?

Sealants are most commonly placed on first molars due to their anatomical shape and the specific purposes sealants serve. First molars, which typically erupt around the age of six, have deep grooves and pits in their occlusal surface that can be difficult to clean properly with a toothbrush. These features make them more susceptible to decay, particularly in children who may not have fully developed their oral hygiene skills.

Sealants act as a protective barrier, sealing off the grooves and preventing bacteria and food particles from accumulating and causing caries. This preventative measure is particularly important during the early years of dental development when the teeth are most vulnerable. While sealants can be applied to other teeth as well, such as premolars or second molars, the first molars are a primary focus in preventive dentistry.

The other types of teeth mentioned—central incisors, canines, and third molars—typically do not have the same level of susceptibility to decay in the context where sealants are most effective. Central incisors and canines have smoother surfaces that are less prone to trap food particles, making sealant application less common. Third molars, or wisdom teeth, often face extraction due to their position and potential for complications rather than preservation with sealants