What are dental sealants?

Made of plastic, dental sealants applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect tooth enamel from decay-causing bacteria and acids. These sealants fit perfectly into the depression and groves (pits and fissures) of your children’s teeth, protecting them from decay.

When should dental sealants be applied?

Decay can begin early in life, so children should receive sealants on permanent molars as soon as they erupt – around age 6 for first molars and age 12 for second molars.

Will my insurance pay for sealants?

Dental insurance typically will pay for sealants for children and teenagers’ permanent molars.  Be sure to check with your dental insurance company about your plan, as coverage does vary.