Dental sealant application is a simple cavity prevention procedure with effects that can last for 5 to 10 years. A dental sealant is a thin, tooth-colored, plastic material that is painted into the pits and grooves of the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. These areas are prone to dental decay because they are deep and difficult for the bristles of a toothbrush to reach. Dental sealants are often recommended for children at age 6, when the first set of molars are erupting into the mouth, and at age 12, when the second set of molars are erupting. Dental sealants take only a couple of minutes to apply and can be reapplied in the future if necessary.