Sealants are a thin protective coating painted into the grooves of back teeth to keep food and germs out and help prevent cavities.
After the visit
- Your child can usually eat and drink normally right away.
- The teeth may feel slightly different for a day or two. If the bite feels high, let us know.
Protect them
- Avoid chewing ice, hard candy and other very hard objects that can chip sealants.
Daily care
- Sealants do not replace brushing. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss.
Checkups
- We check sealants at each regular visit and can repair or replace them if they wear or chip.
Call our office right away if
- A sealant chips or comes off
- The bite feels uneven after a day
This handout is general information. Always follow the specific instructions your dentist gives you, which may differ from this sheet. For a medical emergency, such as trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling spreading toward the eye or neck, or bleeding that will not stop, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Content last reviewed: 2026-10.