Should You Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a simple way to protect the grooves of back teeth from cavities. They’re common for children, but many adults benefit too—especially if your molars have deep pits, you’ve had cavities before, or brushing those nooks is tough.
Are dental sealants right for me or my child?
Sealants are thin protective coatings for the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. They block food and bacteria from settling into deep grooves, which helps prevent cavities. Kids 6–14 benefit most, but adults with higher decay risk can benefit too.
What exactly are dental sealants?
Think of a sealant like a raincoat for the biting surface of a back tooth. Your dentist paints on a tooth-coloured coating that flows into the grooves, then uses a blue light to harden it. Once cured, it creates a smooth shield that makes the tooth easier to clean.
If you want a deeper dive into how the science works, see how dental sealants protect teeth.
Who benefits most from sealants?
Sealants are often recommended for kids because new permanent molars are especially prone to decay in the first few years after they come in. But adults can benefit too, especially if they have:
- Deep grooves and pits on back teeth
- A history of cavities
- Dry mouth (less saliva), certain medications, or frequent snacking on sugary or acidic foods
- Braces or trouble cleaning all chewing surfaces
In the real world, personalized care matters. In our original examples, Lucy avoided fillings thanks to early sealants and regular checkups. Marcus saw fewer new cavities once his dentist combined sealants with fluoride and small diet changes.
Do sealants really reduce cavities?
Yes. Research shows sealants can cut the risk of cavities in the back teeth by up to 80% in the first two years. That protection continues with regular checkups and touch-ups as needed. Want a quick overview of the advantages? Check out the clear benefits of dental sealants.
“Sealants can reduce the risk of decay in molars by nearly 80 percent.” — American Dental Association
Are sealants safe? What about BPA?
Sealants have been used for decades and are considered safe for children and adults. Some products may contain trace amounts of BPA, but the exposure is extremely low—far below safety limits and less than what we’re exposed to in everyday life. If you’re concerned, ask your dentist about BPA-free options or application techniques that further reduce exposure.
How long do sealants last?
With good oral care, sealants can last 5–10 years. They’re checked during routine visits and can be repaired or replaced if a small part chips or wears. Keeping regular checkups is the best way to make sure your protection stays strong.
What’s the application process like?
Step-by-step: quick and painless
1) The tooth is cleaned. 2) A gentle gel prepares the surface. 3) The tooth is rinsed and dried. 4) The sealant is painted on. 5) A blue light hardens it. There’s no drilling and no freezing. Most appointments are done in minutes per tooth.
What will it feel like after?
You might notice the biting surface feels a bit smoother or thicker at first. That sensation fades quickly as you chew normally. If anything feels “high” on your bite, your dentist can adjust it in seconds.
What’s the right age for kids?
Most dentists suggest sealing the first permanent molars soon after they appear, usually around age 6–7, and the second permanent molars around 11–13. Timing can vary. Your child’s dentist will check eruption (when teeth come in) and recommend the best time.
Cost and insurance coverage in Canada
Fees vary by province and clinic. Many Canadian dental plans cover sealants for children (often up to age 18), at or near 100% under preventive benefits. Adult coverage is less common, but some plans allow it based on risk. Check your plan’s booklet or ask your dental office to submit a pre-determination so you know your out-of-pocket cost before treatment.
Who should think twice?
Sealants protect chewing surfaces. They won’t help much if your main risk is between the teeth (where floss cleans) or along the gumline. If there’s decay already present, your dentist will treat that first. Sealants also need a dry field for proper bonding; if a tooth can’t be kept dry long enough, your dentist may delay treatment or use other preventive tools until conditions are better.
Sealants aren’t a magic shield—combine them with daily habits
Sealants add a layer of protection, but they work best as part of a simple routine: brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth, limit sugary and acidic snacks, and drink water often. For easy, everyday steps you can start now, explore practical ways to prevent cavities.
Personalized plans make prevention work harder for you
Your mouth is unique—your enamel, saliva flow, diet, and habits all matter. That’s why one-size-fits-all advice sometimes falls short. A dentist can tailor a plan to your risk level. For Marcus, that meant sealants plus fluoride and a few snack swaps. For Lucy, it was sealants right when molars arrived and short, positive checkups to build great habits.
Signs sealants might be a smart move
- Newly erupted permanent molars (ages 6–14)
- Deep grooves and pits you can feel with your tongue
- Past cavities in baby or adult teeth
- Dry mouth (from medications or medical conditions)
- Braces or challenges cleaning every chewing surface
Side effects: what to expect
Side effects are rare. A few people notice a slight change in their bite right after placement; if so, your dentist can smooth the surface. Allergic reactions are extremely uncommon. Let your dentist know about material sensitivities or any history of allergies.
Conclusion
Dental sealants are a fast, painless, and proven way to protect cavity-prone chewing surfaces. They shine for kids, but many adults benefit too. For best results, fold sealants into a personal plan that fits your teeth, your habits, and your goals—and keep up with regular checkups so the protection lasts.
FAQ
Do sealants replace brushing and flossing?
No. Sealants protect the chewing surfaces, but you still need to brush with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth every day. Sealants are a helpful add-on, not a swap.
How long do sealants last and can they be repaired?
Most last 5–10 years. Your dentist checks them at routine visits and can repair or reapply a sealant if a small section chips or wears away. It’s quick and painless to touch up.
Are sealants safe for children and teens?
Yes. Sealants have a long safety record and are widely recommended for kids once permanent molars come in. If you’re concerned about BPA, ask about BPA-free products and placement steps that reduce exposure even further.
Will I feel a sealant on my tooth?
You may notice a smoother or slightly different chewing surface at first. That feeling usually fades quickly. If anything feels “high,” your dentist can adjust it in a few seconds.
Are sealants covered by insurance in Canada?
Many Canadian dental plans cover sealants for children (often up to age 18). Adult coverage varies. Ask your dental office to check your benefits or send a pre-determination so you know your exact coverage.
When should my child get sealants?
Often around age 6–7 for the first permanent molars and 11–13 for the second molars. Your dentist will confirm timing based on when each tooth erupts and your child’s cavity risk.
