Most people know brushing and flossing are important dental hygiene habits for preventing tooth decay. However, there is more that can be done to protect your teeth from cavities through dental sealants. These coatings can be made of dental resins, plastic, or ceramic. By covering and protecting your teeth from acids produced by food particles and bacteria, dental sealants reduce the risk of cavities very effectively. PROVEN PREVENTION OF CAVITIES In fact, the Centers for Disease Control says that having dental sealants can decrease tooth decay risk by approximately 80% for 2 years after application and 50% over the next 4 years. Although they can help patients of any age, dental sealants are highly recommended for school aged children at the time their molars come in.