Cavity prevention
Dental Sealants
Protective coatings that prevent decay on back teeth.
Sealants are thin protective coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where most cavities start. They’re fast, comfortable, and one of the most effective preventive treatments we offer.
Who needs sealants?
Most kids benefit from sealants on their permanent molars (ages 6 and 12, roughly). Adults with deep grooves and a history of cavities can also benefit. We’ll evaluate your specific anatomy and recommend based on actual risk.
The procedure
We clean the tooth, apply a mild etching gel, rinse and dry, then paint on the sealant and cure it with a light. The whole thing takes a few minutes per tooth. No drilling, no shots.
Common Questions
Frequently asked
At what age should my child get sealants?
The American Dental Association recommends sealing the first set of permanent molars around age 6, and the second set around age 12 — right after they erupt and before cavities have a chance to start. Some kids benefit from sealants on their permanent premolars too. We'll evaluate at routine checkups.
Do adults benefit from sealants?
Often, yes. Adults with deep grooves on their molars and a history of cavities can benefit from sealants the same way kids do. If you're prone to decay despite good hygiene, sealants are a smart preventive investment.
How long do dental sealants last?
A well-placed sealant typically lasts 5 to 10 years. We check sealants at every cleaning and re-apply if any have worn down or chipped. Reapplication is quick and painless — no drilling, no shots.
Does insurance cover sealants?
Most dental insurance plans cover sealants for children under 14 at 100% as a preventive service. Adult sealants are sometimes covered, sometimes not — we'll verify your specific benefits before placement.
Are sealants safe? I've heard they contain BPA.
The trace amount of BPA in modern dental sealants is far below the FDA's safety threshold — equivalent to the BPA exposure you'd get from breathing typical indoor air for a few hours. The American Dental Association considers sealants safe and continues to recommend them as one of the most effective cavity-prevention tools available.
How much do sealants cost without insurance?
Typically $30 to $60 per tooth at our office. A child's full set of 4 sealants on permanent molars usually runs $120 to $240 total. Virginia Dental Club members get 20% off, and most insurance plans cover them in full for kids.
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