A quick, painless treatment that prevents 80% of cavities in molars. Discover dental sealants for children at Makati pediatric dental clinics.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. They flow into the deep pits and grooves where toothbrush bristles cannot reach, creating a smooth, protective barrier.
Sealants prevent 80% of cavities in the back teeth for up to 2 years after placement, and continue to provide significant protection for up to 9 years. They are one of the most cost-effective preventive treatments in dentistry.
The application is completely painless and takes only a few minutes per tooth. No drilling or anesthesia is required, making sealants ideal for children who may be anxious about dental procedures.
When to Get Sealants
First molars erupt around age 6. Sealing these teeth as soon as they fully emerge protects them during the cavity-prone years of childhood. Second molars erupt around age 12 and should also be sealed promptly.
Adults without fillings or decay in their molars can also benefit from sealants. If grooves are deep and you have a history of cavities, your Makati dentist may recommend sealants regardless of age.
Sealants are checked at regular dental visits. If chipped or worn, they can be repaired or replaced easily. Most Makati pediatric dentists include sealant checks as part of routine examinations.
Costs and Insurance
Dental sealants in Makati cost PHP 500–1,500 per tooth. Considering that a single filling costs PHP 800–3,000, sealants are an exceptional preventive investment.
Many dental insurance plans and HMOs in the Philippines cover sealants for children under 18. Check with your provider for coverage details. Even without insurance, sealants pay for themselves many times over.
School-based sealant programs occasionally operate in Metro Manila. Ask your Makati pediatric dentist about community programs that may provide free or reduced-cost sealants for eligible children.
Key Takeaways
- Sealants prevent 80% of cavities in molars for up to 2 years
- Application is painless, takes minutes, and requires no drilling
- Best applied when first molars erupt at age 6 and second molars at age 12
- Cost PHP 500-1,500 per tooth — far less than filling a cavity
- Many insurance plans cover sealants for children under 18