### What are Dental Sealants? Dental sealants are a thin, plastic coating painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth, usually the back teeth (premolars and molars). They help prevent tooth decay by quickly bonding into the depressions and grooves of the teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel. ### Why are Sealants Important? Even with thorough brushing and flossing, it's hard to clean all the tiny nooks and crannies in the back teeth. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas from tooth decay by sealing out plaque and food. ### Who Should Get Sealants? - **Children and Teenagers:** They are more likely to develop decay in the grooves of their premolars and molars. Sealants should be applied to their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in, usually between ages 6 to 14. - **Adults:** Those without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants. - **Baby Teeth:** In some cases, sealants may be appropriate for baby teeth, especially if they have deep grooves. Healthy baby teeth are important for maintaining the correct spacing for permanent teeth. ### How are Sealants Applied? Applying sealant is a simple and painless process that takes only a few minutes per tooth. Your dentist or hygienist will clean and dry the tooth, then apply an acidic gel to roughen the surface. After rinsing and drying the tooth again, the sealant is painted on and hardened with a special light. ### How Long Do Sealants Last? Sealants can protect teeth from decay for up to 10 years, but they need to be checked for chipping or wearing at regular dental check-ups. Your dentist can replace sealants as necessary. ### Insurance Coverage Many insurance companies cover the cost of sealants, but usually only for patients younger than 18. Check with your dental insurance carrier to see if sealants are covered under your plan.