Sealants are thin protective coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars). Those surfaces have deep grooves where food and bacteria collect and that toothbrush bristles can’t fully reach. A sealant smooths over the grooves to help prevent cavities there.
How they’re placed: the tooth is cleaned and dried, the coating is painted on and hardened, often with a light. There’s usually no drilling or numbing, and it’s quick.
Who they’re for: they are commonly recommended for children’s permanent molars soon after they come in, often around ages 6 and 12, and sometimes for other teeth or adults at higher risk of decay.
Questions to ask:
- Which teeth would be sealed and why?
- How will you check the sealants at future visits?
- Does my plan cover sealants, and for which ages? (Many plans have age or frequency limits; see the dental insurance glossary.)
Sealants don’t replace brushing, flossing and fluoride, but they can be one more layer of protection. Some school-based programs and health centers also offer them. See our community health centers directory to find one by state.
General education only, not a diagnosis or treatment advice. Please see a licensed dentist about your own situation. For a medical emergency (trouble breathing or swallowing, heavy bleeding, a major injury or rapidly spreading swelling), call 911 or go to the nearest ER.