Children ages 6 to 18 are encouraged to take advantage of a free service being offered by The Community College of Baltimore County.

In cooperation with the Maryland Dental Hygienists Association, the college will offer "Sealant Saturday" from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 9.

Participating children will receive the application of a clear, colorless protective coating on their permanent molar teeth. The coating will help prevent tooth decay, according to a statement from the college.

The event will be held at the Dental Arts Building (Building D) on the Dundalk campus of CCBC, 7200 Sollers Point Road.

The program is free, but appointments are required.

Call Patrice Gernhardt at 443-840-3495 to schedule an appointment. Leave a daytime phone so the appointment can be confirmed.

Each child must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.