A simple shield against cavities.

What are dental sealants?

A sealant is a thin, protective coating painted onto the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. Molars have deep grooves and pits that trap food and bacteria, and even careful brushing can't always reach the bottom of them. The sealant flows into those grooves and hardens, creating a smooth barrier that keeps plaque and food out. Sealed teeth are far less likely to develop cavities on those surfaces.

Who should get sealants?

Children and teenagers are the classic candidates. The first permanent molars come in around age six and the second set around age twelve, and sealing them soon after they erupt protects them during the most cavity-prone years. That said, adults with deep grooves in their molars and no existing fillings or decay can benefit just as much. If you tend to get cavities on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, ask us about sealants.

What does the sealant procedure involve?

It's quick and completely painless. We clean and dry the tooth, apply a mild solution that helps the sealant bond, rinse and dry again, then paint the sealant into the grooves. A special light hardens it in seconds. We check your bite to make sure everything feels normal, and that's it. Each tooth takes only a minute or two, and it can easily be done at the same visit as a cleaning.

How long do sealants last?

Sealants typically protect teeth for several years, and often longer. We check them at every routine exam and can easily touch up or reapply a sealant if it has worn or chipped. Sealed teeth still need regular brushing and flossing, since sealants protect only the chewing surfaces, not the sides of the teeth or the spaces in between.

Are sealants covered by insurance?

Many dental plans cover sealants for children and teens as a preventive benefit, sometimes up to a certain age. Coverage for adults varies. We'll check your benefits and let you know exactly what to expect before we place them. For families without insurance, our in-house dental plan covers preventive care, and our financing options page outlines other options.

When should you book a sealant visit?

The ideal time is soon after a child's permanent molars come in, which is why we often recommend sealants at a routine checkup. For adults, any time is a good time if your dentist notices deep grooves. Sealants are a small step that can save you from fillings down the road, and families throughout Jupiter appreciate how easy they are.