Sealants are a thin plastic coating that is painted onto the chewing surface of the molars to prevent tooth decay. The liquid coating is painted on and bonds to the depressions and grooves of the teeth forming a protective shield.  Sealants prevent cavity creating bacteria and sugars from getting into the grooves of the teeth that cannot be cleaned by regular brushing.

Children should get sealants on their permanent molars as soon as the teeth are fully erupted to ensure protection through the cavity-prone years.