A dental sealant is a plastic material that is applied to
the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars) to prevent cavities.
How Do They Work?
The plastic material acts as a barrier so cavity-causing bacteria
can’t get into the pits and grooves in the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
Are Sealants Hard To Place?
No. In fact, sealants are quick and easy to apply. The teeth
are cleaned and prepared with a solution to make the plastic
stick to the teeth. The plastic is then painted on a tooth
where it then hardens.
Should My Child Have Sealants Placed?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
90 percent of children’s cavities occur in teeth that have
pits and grooves. Two-thirds of those occur on the chewing
surface. Research has shown that dental sealants prevent
cavities on teeth with pits and grooves. As a result, it
is recommended that dental sealants be placed on the molar
teeth of children shortly after they erupt. The first
permanent molars erupt in children around age 6, with the
second set of permanent molars appearing around age 12.
Are Sealants Covered Under the TRICARE Dental Program?
Yes, sealants are covered under the TRICARE Dental
Program on permanent molars through age 18. The
teeth must be caries free with no previous restoration
on the mesial, distal, or occlusal surfaces.
One sealant per tooth is covered in a three-year
period. The cost-share for covered sealants
is 20 percent. If you live in an OCONUS area you
will not have a cost-share*.
*Selected Reserve and IRR family members and IRR
(other than Special Mobilization Category) members are
responsible for the applicable cost-share portion
regardless of where the treatment is received.
