What are the benefits of dental sealants?

Dental sealants, made of a tooth-colored plastic resin material, act like a shield against the bacteria and acids that cause cavities. Our back teeth (molars and premolars) have an uneven surface that helps us chew food. However, these pits and grooves also trap food that can lead to tooth decay and cavities.

When covered by a dental sealant, the depth of these natural pits and grooves get smaller. This makes it harder for food to get stuck and easier for you to clean your teeth. Sealants can work for both children and adults, so ask your dentist if they’re a good option for you and your family.

Cavity protection is the main benefit of dental sealants, but they’re also:

• Fast—the procedure should only take a few minutes per tooth
• Safe—you may be exposed to a tiny amount of bisphenol A (BPA) for a few hours after the procedure, but not enough to harm you
• Painless—no drilling is involved
• Effective—sealants reduce the risk of cavities by 75% over 2–3 years
• Long lasting—like a filling, a sealant can last many years

Without insurance, the cost of dental sealants can be $30–$40 per tooth. Dentists are free to set their own rates, so you may want to search your area for the best dental sealant price.¹

If you or your child need dental sealants, Humana can help. We offer a broad range of dental plans with varying levels of coverage, many with low monthly premiums. Some of our plans also feature no waiting periods, which means you could get covered in about 5 days. To see plans and prices in your area, check out our Humana Insurance Company dental insurance page.