On this page · 5 sections
01Why it matters
The chewing surfaces of molars and premolars have deep pits and grooves. Toothbrush bristles cannot always reach the bottom of them, so these areas are where most cavities in children and teens begin. According to the CDC, sealants on permanent molars prevent most cavities in those teeth for years after they are placed. Sealants work alongside fluoride, which strengthens the rest of the tooth surface.
Sealants are often placed soon after the first permanent molars come in, around age 6. The second molars usually come in around age 12. Teens and some adults with deep grooves and no decay or fillings on those surfaces can benefit too. The dentist decides which teeth are good candidates after an exam.
Text version of this infographic
Diagram of a back tooth. A thin red coating covers the deep grooves on its chewing surface, where food and bacteria get trapped. Sealants are painted on, harden into a shield against decay, and usually need no drilling or numbing.
02What happens
Placing a sealant usually takes only a few minutes per tooth:
- The tooth is cleaned and dried.
- A mild solution is applied to slightly roughen the surface so the sealant bonds well, then it is rinsed off.
- The tooth is dried again, and the liquid sealant is painted into the grooves.
- A curing light may be used to harden the sealant.
Your child can eat and drink normally right afterward. Sealants are only placed on chewing surfaces that do not have decay. A tooth that already has a cavity in that spot needs a filling instead. Before placing a sealant, the dentist checks the grooves closely, and X-rays may be used to look for hidden decay.
03Cost factors
What sealants cost depends on:
- How many teeth are sealed.
- Your dental insurance plan. Many plans cover sealants on children's permanent molars, but age limits and rules vary, so call the office to check your plan.
- Whether a sealant needs to be repaired or reapplied later.
- The option to use CareCredit, which the office accepts.
04How to care for it
Sealants can last for several years, but they can chip or wear down over time. The dentist checks them at regular visits and can repair or reapply them when needed. Sealants protect only the chewing surfaces.
Children still need to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between their teeth, and limit sugary snacks and drinks. Chewing ice and hard candy can crack sealants, so it is wise to avoid both.
Parents can help by brushing with younger children until they can do a good job alone. Regular checkups help too. Learn more about care for younger patients on our kids dentistry page.
Want to protect your child's back teeth? See our kids dentistry page.
05Questions people ask
Are dental sealants safe?
Yes. The ADA and CDC support sealants as safe and effective. Some sealant materials can contain trace amounts of BPA, but according to the ADA the exposure is extremely low, much lower than what people encounter in everyday life.
How long do sealants last?
Sealants can protect teeth for several years. They can wear down or chip, so the dentist checks them at regular visits and can repair or reapply them if needed.
At what age should my child get sealants?
Sealants are often placed soon after the permanent molars come in, around age 6 for the first molars and around age 12 for the second molars. The dentist will recommend timing based on your child's teeth.
Dr. Sadek is the family dentist at Americana Family Dental on Americana Blvd in Orlando. He reviews the health information on this site. Review date: [date pending review]