Stop tooth decay before it starts and prevent cavities

Dental sealants can be beneficial for both children and adults. They may be recommended for patients who have deep grooves or pits in their back teeth, a history of tooth decay, or other factors that may increase their risk for cavities. Your dentist can evaluate your teeth and determine whether sealants are appropriate for you.

Applying a dental sealant is a simple, minimally invasive process. The tooth is cleaned and prepared before a thin protective coating is applied to the chewing surface. The sealant is then hardened to create a barrier that helps keep food particles and bacteria from collecting in the grooves and pits of the tooth.

Dental sealants can last for several years, although their lifespan varies depending on normal wear and other factors. Your dentist will check your sealants during routine exams and can recommend repair or replacement if a sealant becomes worn or damaged.

No. Dental sealants provide additional protection for the grooved surfaces of teeth, but they do not replace daily brushing, flossing, or regular dental visits. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping up with preventive appointments remain important for protecting your smile.

Dental sealants are a preventive treatment designed to help protect teeth before decay develops. They cover deep grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria can collect, helping make those areas easier to keep clean and reducing the opportunity for decay to develop.

Dental sealant placement is generally quick and comfortable. The process typically does not require drilling or local anesthesia because the sealant is applied to the surface of the tooth. You may feel the tooth being cleaned and prepared before the sealant is placed.

In most cases, children can return to their normal diet after sealants are placed. The sealant is hardened during the appointment, so there is generally no extended waiting period before eating. Your dentist will provide any specific aftercare instructions if needed.

Sometimes. Sealants may be recommended for certain baby teeth, particularly when they have deep grooves or pits that may be more difficult to keep clean. Your child’s dentist will consider the tooth’s condition and your child’s individual risk for decay when making a recommendation.

Dental sealants are primarily used to protect tooth surfaces that are at risk for developing decay. If a tooth already has decay, damage, or another dental concern, your dentist will evaluate it and determine whether a sealant or another treatment is appropriate.

If you notice that a sealant feels rough, chipped, or partially missing, let your dentist know. Your dentist can examine the tooth and determine whether the sealant needs to be repaired or replaced to maintain its protective benefit.