Dental Sealants

Provided by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

What are dental sealants?

Sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth.

Sealants are put on in dentists' offices, clinics, and sometimes in schools. Getting sealants put on is simple and painless. Sealants are painted on as a liquid and quickly harden to form a shield over the tooth.

Sealants are clear or tinted. Tinted sealants are easier to see.

Are sealants new? No, sealants are not new. They have been around for a long time! Research by NIDCR and others led to the development of sealants in the early 1960s. But many people still do not know what sealants are. In fact, fewer than 20 percent of children in the United States have sealants!

How long do sealants last? Sealants can last up to 10 years. But they need to be checked at regular dental check-ups to make sure they are not chipped or worn away. The dentist can repair sealants by adding more sealant material. How much do sealants cost? Sealing one tooth usually costs less than filling one tooth.

Having sealants put on healthy teeth now will save you money in the long run by avoiding fillings, crowns, or caps used to fix decayed teeth.

But the most important reason for getting sealants is to avoid tooth decay. Healthy teeth can last a lifetime!

Does insurance pay for sealants? Many insurance companies pay for sealants. Check with your company for details.