Ages 1 to 18
Sealants and fluoride for kids
Two quick, no-needle ways to help protect teeth: fluoride varnish and sealants on the back teeth.
What to know
Back teeth have deep grooves that a toothbrush can't fully reach. A sealant is a thin, tooth-colored coating that fills those grooves. Fluoride varnish is painted on and helps strengthen enamel. Neither needs a numbing shot, and both can be done during a regular checkup.
A good fit for
- Kids getting their six-year and twelve-year molars
- Children with deep grooves in back teeth
- Kids who have had cavities before
- Any child at a checkup, if you choose fluoride
How a sealant goes on
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Clean the tooth
2 minWe polish the chewing surface and keep it dry with cotton and a gentle air puff.
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Paint the grooves
1 minA thin liquid flows into the grooves. Your child can watch in a mirror.
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Blue light
1 minA small light hardens it in about twenty seconds. Kids usually like this part.
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Check the bite
1 minWe make sure it feels smooth. Your child can eat right away.
Good to know
- Sealants are checked at every visit and touched up if a piece wears away.
- After fluoride varnish, soft foods and no brushing until bedtime.
- You can say no to fluoride. We'll talk through other ways to help protect teeth.
- Sealants add protection. They do not replace brushing and flossing.
What it usually costs
These are typical self-pay ranges at our office. With insurance or Kite Club, your share is usually lower. The exact number comes in writing before any treatment.
Insurance and Kite ClubSealants and fluoride
- Sealant, per tooth
- $40 to $65
- Fluoride varnish
- $30 to $50
- Kite Club members (fluoride included)
- 15% off sealants
Many dental plans cover sealants on permanent molars up to a set age, and fluoride twice a year. We confirm your child's coverage first and tell you any cost before we start.
Parent questions
Do sealants hurt?
No. There's no drilling and no shot. The hardest part for most kids is keeping their mouth open for a few minutes.
How long do sealants last?
Often several years. They can chip or wear, so we check them at each visit and repair them when needed.
Is fluoride varnish safe for toddlers?
Varnish uses a very small amount that sticks to the teeth, so little is swallowed. It's widely used for young children. We're happy to talk through any questions first.
More answers on our parent FAQ.
More care for your child
Ask about sealants at the next checkup
Sealants and fluoride usually happen during a regular checkup. We check your coverage first and tell you any cost before we start.