Dental sealants are one of the most effective and affordable ways to prevent cavities—especially in children and teens. But many patients and parents still ask, “Who exactly should get sealants?” and “Are they only for kids?”
In this article, we’ll explain what dental sealants are, how they work, and who makes the ideal candidate for this simple, yet powerful, preventive dental treatment.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made of resin or plastic that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—primarily molars and premolars. These areas are full of grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria easily collect, making them prone to cavities.
Sealants create a smooth barrier over these grooves, making it easier to clean and harder for plaque to settle in.
Ideal Candidates for Dental Sealants
🧒 Children (Ages 6–14)
Children are the #1 recommended group for dental sealants.
Why?
Their newly erupted first molars (around age 6) and second molars (around age 12) have deep grooves that are hard to clean.
Kids are more prone to cavities due to developing brushing habits and sugar intake.
Applying sealants early prevents decay before it starts.
✅ Best practice: Sealants should be applied as soon as permanent molars erupt.
👧 Teens with Deep Grooves or History of Cavities
Teenagers with:
Deep pits and grooves on their molars
Past or recurring cavities
Orthodontic appliances that make brushing harder
can benefit greatly from sealants, especially if they’re at high risk for decay.
👨🦰 Adults at High Risk for Cavities
Yes—adults can get sealants too!
You may be a good candidate if:
You have no fillings or decay in your molars
Your molars have deep grooves or fissures
You’ve had frequent cavities in the past
You struggle with maintaining oral hygiene (e.g., due to disability or chronic illness)
Note: Sealants can’t be placed over existing fillings or decayed teeth, but they can help preserve healthy ones.
🧑🦼 People with Special Healthcare Needs
Patients who have difficulty brushing due to physical or cognitive limitations may benefit from sealants as a preventive measure.
This includes:
Individuals with developmental disabilities
Elderly patients with reduced mobility or dexterity
People undergoing radiation or chemotherapy, which can increase cavity risk
Who Should Not Get Sealants?
Sealants are not typically recommended for:
Teeth that already have cavities or large fillings
Teeth with shallow grooves that are easy to clean
Baby teeth that are close to falling out (unless cavity risk is very high)
Your dentist will examine each case individually before recommending sealants.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Prevents up to 80% of cavities in molars
Quick and painless procedure (no drilling or anesthesia)
Lasts up to 5–10 years with proper care
Safe and effective for both children and adults
Cost-effective, especially compared to fillings or crowns
The Sealant Procedure: What to Expect
- Cleaning: The tooth is cleaned and dried
- Etching: A solution is applied to roughen the surface for bonding
- Rinsing and Drying: Tooth is rinsed again and dried
- Application: The sealant is painted onto the tooth
- Curing: A special light hardens the sealant in seconds
Total time? Just a few minutes per tooth. No discomfort, no downtime.
Conclusion: Sealants Are Simple, Safe, and Smart
Whether you’re a parent looking to protect your child’s new molars or an adult who wants to avoid future dental work, sealants offer powerful protection against decay. Talk to your dentist to see if you—or your child—are a good candidate.